Not long ago, the only place you’d see a trampoline was at the circus. Today, they’re out from under the big top, popping up in health clubs, backyards and even in water. However, this leap into everyday life has also increased the number of people landing in emergency rooms and medical clinics with injuries from trampoline use. Because many trampoline injuries occur in the backyards of private homes, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) does not recommend the recreational use of trampolines. Sprains, fractures, scrapes, bruises and cuts are common injuries associated with trampoline jumping. Severe injuries – such as to the neck or spinal cord – resulting in paralysis or death can also occur.

“While trampolines seem like a fun form of physical activity, the reality is that they frequently result in injury,” said John M. Purvis, MD, pediatric orthopaedic surgeon at the Pediatric Orthopaedic Specialists of Mississippi in Jackson, Miss. In an effort to reduce the number and severity of trampoline injuries treated by orthopaedic surgeons, the Academy recommends routinely following the below safety tips:

• Use of trampolines for physical education, competitive gymnastics, diving training and other similar activities requires careful adult supervision and proper safety measures.

• Trampolines should not be used for unsupervised recreational activity.

• Competent adult supervision and instruction is mandatory for children at all times.

• Adult spotters must be present when participants are jumping. A spotter should be big enough and strong enough to protect the jumper, if he or she gets too close to the edge.

• Only one person should use a trampoline at a time.

• Always jump in the center of the trampoline.

• Somersaults or high-risk maneuvers should never be attempted without appropriate supervision and instruction. These maneuvers should be performed only with proper use of protective equipment, including a harness and helmet.

• Never go under a trampoline while someone else is jumping on it.

• Never play on a wet trampoline or use a trampoline in inclement weather conditions, such as rain or snow.

• Never jump off a trampoline. When finished jumping, a jumper should stop, walk to the edge, sit and slide off.

• Put the trampoline in a spot that is surrounded by a soft or padded surface.

• Place the trampoline away from structures, fences, trees and other play areas.

• If possible, lower the height-to-ground level by putting the trampoline in a pit. Trampoline legs should be placed firmly into a hole slightly wider and longer than the trampoline frame, and deep enough so that the mat is level with the ground.

The supporting bars, hooks, springs, strings and surrounding landing surfaces should be completely covered with adequate shock-absorbent protective padding.

Set rules for use of the trampoline and make sure they are clear.

Trampoline users should remove all jewelry before jumping.

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