For Immediate Release:
Below is a highlight of a study published in the April issue of Pediatrics, the peer-reviewed, scientific journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). To receive the full text of these studies and interview contact information, please contact the AAP Division of Public Relations at [email protected] and ask for C548.
FALLS FROM "TARZAN SWINGS" POSE SIGNIFICANT INJURY RISK TO CHILDREN
CHICAGO--Parents might want to think twice before letting their children swing on a single rope or vine in their backyards. A new study in the April issue of Pediatrics, the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, finds that children who fall from these "Tarzan swings" suffer significant injuries even from low heights.
Researchers from Childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pa., examined regional pediatric trauma center data on 26 children injured from Tarzan swing falls and found head trauma was the most common injury (58 percent) followed by long bone fractures (42 percent). Children ranged in age from 7 to 13 years, and 21 of the 26 children studied were boys. All children fell onto packed dirt and over half fell from one story (12 feet) or less. Most fell from ropes, but eight children fell from vines.
According to the researchers, Tarzan swing activity carries a substantial risk for serious injury. Unlike a straight fall from a ledge or window, children who fall from Tarzan swings twist and spin, such as a gymnast on a trampoline. However, a swinging child doesnt have the body control that a gymnast does during descent and lands haphazardly.
"Unfortunately, abstinence from this activity is the only reliable means of prevention," the researchers conclude.
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers a free brochure on preventing playground injuries. Your readers, viewers or listeners can request one free brochure by sending a self-addressed, stamped business-size envelope to: AAP, Dept. C-Playground Safety, PO Box 927, Elk Grove Village, IL 60009- 0927.
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EDITORS NOTE: This study was published in the peer-reviewed, scientific journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, but does not necessarily reflect the policy or opinion of the Academy. The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 53,000 pediatricians dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.
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