Characterization of neurological injuries from roller coaster rides among minors

Roller coasters subject riders to high forces, which are generally considered safe for the brain and spine. Despite reports of serious injuries, there remains a limited understanding of the frequency and severity of injuries in pediatric patients. This study aimed to determine the incidence and types of roller coaster-related neurological injuries in children.

The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) was queried for U.S. emergency department visits from 2004 to 2023 involving neurological injuries sustained on roller coasters in patients under the age of 18 years. Narratives were screened to include only cases with cranial and spinal injuries. A weighted survey design was used to calculate national estimates and 95 % confidence intervals.

The search identified 274 cases, corresponding to a national estimate of 6382 pediatric emergency visits over 20 years, averaging 319 per year. Injuries to the cervical spine accounted for the highest percent at 44.6 %, followed by head injuries at 30.6 %. Muscular strain was the most common diagnosis (47.3 %), primarily affecting the neck. Thirty-seven percent of the reported head injuries caused concussions. Torticollis and compression fractures were less frequent, with national estimates of 125 and 14 cases, respectively.

It was found that rollercoaster rides caused a low number of injuries, and a few instances of serious injuries, such as concussions and compression fractures. These findings warrant further investigation into the biomechanical and ergonomic factors that contribute to pediatric vulnerability on roller coasters.