@article{ref1,
title="Impact of dedicated skate parks on the severity and incidence of skateboard- and rollerblade-related pediatric fractures",
journal="Journal of pediatric orthopedics",
year="2003",
author="Sheehan, E. and Mulhall, K. J. and Kearns, S. and Connor, P and McManus, F. and Stephens, M. and McCormack, D.",
volume="23",
number="4",
pages="440-442",
abstract="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.",
language="",
issn="0271-6798",
doi="",
url="http://dx.doi.org/"
}