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The infant walker. A previously unrecognized health hazard
American Journal of Diseases of Children (1960)
|March 1, 1982
Summary
Infant walkers pose significant injury risks, with 31% of users experiencing mishaps like head trauma and fractures. There are no proven benefits to justify these dangers for preambulatory children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric medicine
- Consumer product safety
Background:
- Infant walkers are commonly used by preambulatory children.
- The safety and efficacy of infant walkers have been debated.
Observation:
- A survey of 195 pediatric patients (5-15 months) found 77% used infant walkers.
- 31% of infant walker users (47 patients) reported injuries.
Findings:
- Reported injuries included closed head trauma, fractures, lacerations, tooth avulsion, and soft palate perforation.
- No proven developmental benefits were associated with infant walker use.
Implications:
- The high incidence of injury suggests infant walkers pose a considerable risk to young children.
- Physicians should counsel parents on the potential dangers of infant walkers and advocate for safer alternatives.