Skateboarding is considered an exciting and enjoyable activity, drawing in people of all ages. However, skateboarding is actually a quite difficult and taxing sport that comes with the possibility of injury. <\/p>\n
The occurrence of skateboarding injuries has risen as the popularity of the sport has grown. As skateboarding has evolved and more tricks are developed, the injury pattern seen in skateboarders has changed.<\/p>\n
Skateboarding injuries are relatively common during the practice of the sport. Since many skateboarders begin learning during their childhood or their teenage years, injuries are very frequent in children. There are a few types of injury that can occur to skateboarders: acute injuries, traumatic injuries, and overuse injuries.<\/p>\n
Many injuries happen when a skateboarder loses balance, falls off the skateboard and lands on an outstretched arm. Skateboarding injuries of the upper limb usually affect the wrist and elbow. Injuries vary from small cuts or lacerations to more serious injuries like sprains, strains, dislocations, and fractures.<\/p>\n
The hand and wrist suffer the main injuries related to the upper limbs. Deformity suggests dislocation or fracture. Tenderness and guarding in children requires evaluation due to the possibility of fracture, which may involve the growth plates. The symptoms for this type of injury may include pain, moderate to no swelling and discoloration of the skin over the affected area. <\/p>\n
The causes of this type of injury are most often related to instability. Young skateboarders are at greater risk than adults to sustaining severe injuries because they may experience poor balance, \u00a0slower reaction times, less coordination, and they often overestimate their skills.<\/p>\n
The most serious injuries happen when skateboarders lose control and fall from a height.<\/p>\n
Hand, elbow and wrist injuries may occur when skateboarders lose their balance and fall on an outstretched arm.<\/p>\n
Acute injury treatment may begin with ice, elevation of the extremities, rest, compression and immobilization. \u00a0The application of ice has a positive impact on the injury by reducing the inflammatory process and pain, and limits swelling to a degree.<\/p>\n
In most cases, skateboarding injuries may be treated conservatively. Rest, immobilization, and examination by a specialized orthopedic hand surgeon are key to try to ensure that an injury is treated properly.<\/p>\n
If a skateboarder has seriously injured their hand, wrist, elbow or arm, surgical intervention may be required to optimize recovery.<\/p>\n
The prevention of injuries is very important. Skateboarders are recommended to:<\/p>\n
Use proper protective gear. <\/b>Essential protective equipment includes a proper fitting helmet, wrist guards with the aim to support the wrist reducing the incidence of fracture. Elbow pads may reduce fractures and the severity of cuts and scrapes.<\/p>\n
Focus on technique.<\/b> The practice of an adequate technique is going to reduce the possibility of acute injuries. Practicing the basic skills of skateboarding is considered one of the most important elements in reducing injury.<\/p>\n
On the other hand, it is important for skateboarders to learn how to fall safely. Instructors are available for this and other purposes. Every skateboarder should practice according to their ability and skill level. <\/p>\n
Additionally, using the correct kind of skateboard for different styles of riding is important. There are boards rated specifically for the user\u2019s weight, which is an important factor for injury prevention. It\u2019s important to use a quality skateboard appropriate for your skill level, weight, and style of riding. It\u2019s also vital to keep your skateboard in good working order. Before, during, and after riding, it is important to look for problems in need of repair. These include:<\/p>\n