Trampoline parks might be popular among kids, but they also pose many dangers because of the high risk of getting hurt at these types of facilities.

Story by: Norton Children’s on June 7, 2023

Trampoline parks might be popular among kids, but they also pose many dangers to children because of the high risk of getting hurt at these types of facilities. Broken bones from bouncing on trampolines are common. Landing the wrong way can cause serious injuries, and a parent likely can’t prevent these types of injuries from happening, even if they are keeping a watchful eye on the kids.

“Children can get significantly injured at trampoline parks, and it’s important to be aware of the risks of injury if your child goes to one of these facilities,” said Mallory A. Guess, PA-C, physician assistant with Norton Children’s Orthopedics of Louisville, affiliated with the UofL School of Medicine. “Of course, parents should allow their children to have fun and be active, but it’s equally important to know the risks involved at these place that are often used for birthday parties, play time on rainy days, et cetera.”

5 types of common injuries at trampoline parks

– Broken bones and fractures (may need surgery)
– Head and neck injuries (can be fatal)
– Sprains
– Concussions
– Cuts

“Trampolines are a common culprit for proximal tibia (shinbone) fractures, usually due to ‘double bouncing’ or landing awkwardly on the affected leg. These fractures often occur at trampoline parks because there may be multiple kids of different ages and sizes jumping on the same trampoline,” Mallory said. “We also see wrist/forearm fractures from falls off the trampoline or when a child tries to catch themself when they fall on the trampoline.”

Staggering numbers of trampoline park injuries

A study that examined the rise in injuries at trampoline parks found that children are “more likely to suffer severe trauma and require surgical intervention (at trampoline parks)” compared with children who use home trampolines, which also come with significant risk for injury. More than 1.3 million pediatric injuries related to trampoline parks were reported in the study alone.

Researchers found that children who use trampoline parks are more likely to have severe injuries to the bones and muscles of the lower extremities (leg, ankle, or foot) that require surgery, whereas injuries to the upper extremities (arm, hand) and head were more common among children who use home trampolines. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) continues to discourage the use of trampolines for all children.

The best way to avoid injury is by avoiding trampoline parks entirely, and by not using any type of trampoline at home. Although it would be best to avoid all trampolines, according to AAP, trampoline injuries may be minimized by keeping only one child on a trampoline at a time and by avoiding any types of flips or somersaults.