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Citation
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Sheehan E, Mulhall KJ, Kearns S, Connor P, McManus F, Stephens M, McCormack D. J. Pediatr. Orthop. 2003; 23(4): 440-442. |
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Abstract
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Dedicated skate parks have led to an increase in
pediatric fractures referred to the authors' unit. The authors performed a
prospective analysis of all patients presenting to their unit with fractures
sustained while Rollerblading or skateboarding over a 5-month period.
Epidemiologic data, user experience, wearing of protective gear, place of
injury, and mechanism of injury were collected. Fracture type and its treatment
were also recorded. The findings indicated that the use of skate parks is
associated with a significant increase in the severity of fracture. This was not
related to mean length of experience, age, or sex. The use of skate parks had an
increased relative risk of 8.35 for fractures requiring manipulation or invasive
orthopedic treatment. Only 5% of children were wearing some form of limb/joint
protective gear. The authors believe there should be closer supervision and
training of children and more emphasis on limb protective gear. The current high
incidence of significant skate park injuries will otherwise continue, with
implications for the well-being of these children and the burden on the
healthcare system. |