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Injuries & Deaths Related to Trampolines

Jumping on a trampoline is a fun childhood activity. Parents like trampolines because they encourage children to engage in physical activity. Trampolines, however, can be dangerous and may cause injury or even death. The Foundation for Spinal Cord Injury Prevention, Care and Cure's website says, "According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) hospital emergency room-treated trampoline injuries almost tripled in the last decade--from an estimated 37,500 in 1991 to almost 100,000 in 1999." It also reports "11 deaths relating to trampoline use from 1990 to 1999."

Strains and Sprains
- Strains and sprains are common injuries related to trampoline use. A sprain is when a ligament, the tissue that is around a joint connecting two bones, is stretched or torn. A strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is stretched or torn. Landing the wrong way while jumping on a trampoline can easily cause a sprain or strain. Common areas that get sprained or strained while on the trampoline include feet, ankles, wrists and hands.
Bone Fractures
- Bone fractures are more serious injuries then sprains and strains. Arms and legs are the most common areas of the body that break as a result of jumping on a trampoline. Other bones in the body may break as well. Landing on a trampoline the wrong way after a jump or falling off the side of the trampoline may result it this type of injury. It is important for anyone who has broken a bone while using a trampoline to seek medical attention right away.
Neck and Back Injuries
- Serious neck and back injuries may also occur with trampoline use. An broken or damaged spinal cord, which runs the length of the back and neck, will most likely result in paralysis of part or all of the body, or even death. The Mayo Clinic states, "The risk of injury is so high that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says that trampolines should never be used at home or in outdoor playgrounds." If you do choose to use a trampoline despite these risks, you do well to follow manufacturer guidelines and use them in the safest way possible.

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