Trampolines

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     In 2012, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a policy statement about recreational trampolines that all parents should be aware of.

     Trampolines are used in structured training programs for a number of different sports. In that setting, the use of trampolines is closely monitored for safety. Trampolines used in private homes or used in trampoline parks often vary greatly in quality, safety features and supervision. The Academy’s statement listed the injuries that can occur with trampolines and gave some suggestions for decreasing risk, but the final conclusion was still to strongly discourage recreational use of trampolines.

     It is recommended that all trampolines have enclosures to decrease the risk of falling off the trampoline along with having padding for the springs and frames. These need to be installed properly and checked for wear frequently. The Academy warned that these “safety features” may create a false sense of security because they do not stop the severe injuries that can occur on the mat itself.

     Injuries were more common in children under 5, especially when they were allowed to jump with older children. The force of the other child bouncing can cause the mat to be as firm as if the younger child was falling on solid ground. Even without falling off the trampoline, young children can sustain fractures of the legs and arms. The recommendation was to only allow one child at a time to use the trampoline. Be especially careful when allowing children under 5 to use a trampoline or avoid allowing those very young children to use the trampoline at all.

     The most serious injuries were injuries to the head and neck that caused permanent, catastrophic neurologic damage. These usually occurred when the child was attempting somersaults and flips. Children, especially teenagers,, naturally want to attempt these moves, and it is up to the adult to strictly prohibit them from doing so.

     Trampolines pose such an increased risk that many homeowner’s insurance policies require the owner to purchase a rider on the policy to cover trampoline injuries.

     In short, the use of recreational trampolines is strongly discouraged. Children and adolescents should only be allowed to use trampolines as part of a sports training program that uses all necessary precautions including systems of ropes or cords to safely teach somersaults.