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Comparative Analysis of Lower Limb Kinematics between the Initial and Terminal Phase of 5km Treadmill Running
Published on: July 17, 2020
Paediatric injuries due to home treadmill use: an emerging problem
P Lohana1, S Hemington-Gorse, C Thomas
1Birmingham Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UK. lohana28@hotmail.co.uk
Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
|February 21, 2012
Summary
Treadmill injuries in children are a growing concern, with most hand injuries occurring at home. These preventable burns often require surgery but typically result in good functional outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric burn injuries
- Home exercise equipment safety
Background:
- Increasing popularity of home exercise equipment, particularly treadmills.
- Emerging problem of treadmill-related injuries in children.
- Lack of previous reporting on such injuries in the UK.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present experience with treadmill-related injuries in children.
- To highlight the importance of recognizing and preventing these injuries.
- To promote public awareness regarding treadmill safety for children.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records from two regional burn units.
- Inclusion criteria: children with treadmill-related injuries (July 2003 - July 2009).
- Data collected: demographics, injury mechanism, management, surgical intervention, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Twenty-nine children (mean age 3.8 years) sustained treadmill injuries.
- All injuries occurred at home, often involving hands trapped under the belt during adult use.
- 97% of injuries were to the upper limb, with deep burns common; 58% required surgery, and 5 developed hypertrophic scars.
Conclusions:
- Treadmills present a significant, preventable danger to children.
- Urgent need for regulatory authorities, manufacturers, and parents to implement preventative measures.
- Emphasis on public awareness to mitigate this emerging health issue.
