If you’re like most people, you’re probably looking forward to spending more time outdoors and enjoying the warmer weather. However, with the increase in activity comes an increased risk of accidents and injuries.
While there’s an increase in nature-related injuries and illnesses such as bug bites, sunburns, and heatstroke, summer activities increase the chances of broken bones, concussions, and other injuries. We list 4 of the most common injuries in the summer months and how you can prevent them.
Common Summer Injuries
Swimming Injuries
Swimming pools have a high risk for injury and drowning, especially for children ages 1-4 years old. While they’re a popular choice for kids to spend their time during hot summer days, swimming pools can be equally as dangerous as they are fun. Some injuries like slips, falls, and drownings can be due to:
- Running around areas that are slippery
- Lack of safety equipment
- Little or no supervision
- Lack of swimming ability
- Absent drain covers
You can prevent injuries at the pool and keep it a fun place for your child to enjoy. If they are younger and you notice that they struggle to swim, provide them with arm floats or enroll them in swimming lessons. Check all drain covers and make sure they are properly covered and inform children about the dangers they pose. And finally, always monitor children that are near water and never leave them alone even for a second.
Sports Injuries
Football, soccer, and skateboarding are just some of the sports that are popular during the summer. With all of the running, jumping, and twisting that can occur during these activities, it’s not surprising that injuries are also quite common during this time of year. Some of these injuries include:
- Sprains and Strains
- Concussions
- Broken Bones
- Fractures
- Dislocations
There’s nothing wrong with being safety-conscious. Wearing the proper safety gear, like knee pads and braces, is the best way to prevent injury. Stretching is also a great way to warm up your muscles to prepare your body for physical activity.
Playground Injuries
The playground is a great place for children to play and use up their energy, so we’re no strangers to the small injuries that they sustain all too often. Of course, those minor bumps and scratches can suddenly turn into fractures or sprains. These injuries are usually due to:
- Falls from equipment
- Improper use of equipment
- Poor maintenance of equipment
- Damaged equipment or surfaces
- Roughhousing with other children
Injuries at playgrounds can easily be prevented by simply supervising children while they are playing. NOC provides premier orthopaedic and sports injury treatment. We have experience treating all types of playground injuries, from broken bones to concussions.
Trampoline Injuries
Most trampoline injuries are sustained by children, usually between the ages of 5 and 14. The most common reason for an injury on a trampoline occurs when two or more children are jumping at the same time and collide. Other common causes include:
- Using a trampoline in bad weather
- Falling off the trampoline
- Landing improperly
- Landing on the mat, frame, or springs
- Attempting risky stunts
To help reduce the risk of injury you should maintain your trampoline by checking for tears, detachments, and deterioration. Other preventative measures include:
- Providing adult supervision and instruction
- Allow only 1 person to jump at a time
- Don’t allow somersaults or risky behavior
- Trampolines should always be placed at ground level
- Remove ladders after use
- Ensure your trampoline is properly anchored to the ground
- Only allow jumping in the center of the trampoline
- Teach them how to safely get off the trampoline
Take Care of Your Injuries
Nebraska Orthopaedic Center offers personalized orthopaedic and sports medicine care designed to help you heal and feel your best. Don’t let your injury put a damper on your summer vacation fun. Call or schedule an appointment today so we can head start your recovery process.