Dr. Mitchell Keschner of the Central Orthopedic Group recently sat down with the team at News 12 Long Island to discuss the growing number of hoverboard-related injuries that are affecting both youth and adults. With hoverboards becoming increasingly popular over the past several months, injuries associated with these self-balancing scooters have also risen dramatically. According to Dr. Keschner, the majority of these injuries are preventable with proper safety precautions.
Hoverboard Injuries on the Rise
A 12-year-old boy from Plainview, for example, fell off his hoverboard just a day after receiving it. The fall resulted in several wrist fractures, highlighting the severity and frequency of injuries related to hoverboards. “I’ve seen 20-30 patients in the past six months who have sustained injuries from hoverboards,” Dr. Keschner says. While some injuries can be managed conservatively with casts and rest, others require more advanced interventions, including bone manipulation or surgical treatment.
Dr. Keschner discusses common hoverboard injuries and tips for injury prevention in this exclusive segment with News 12 Long Island.
Common Types of Hoverboard Injuries
Hoverboard injuries can vary depending on the age, experience level, and precautions taken by the rider. Some of the most commonly reported injuries include:
- Wrist and Arm Fractures: Falling forward is the most frequent cause of wrist injuries. Children and adults instinctively try to break their fall with their hands, leading to fractures.
- Ankle Sprains and Fractures: Losing balance on a hoverboard can cause awkward twists of the ankle, leading to sprains or more serious fractures.
- Head Injuries: Although less common, serious falls can result in concussions, especially when riders are not wearing helmets.
- Knee and Elbow Injuries: Impact with the ground or surrounding objects can cause bruises, lacerations, or dislocations.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and bruising are often seen in less severe cases but can still affect daily activity and require rehabilitation.
Who is Most at Risk?
Hoverboard injuries affect both children and adults, but younger riders are particularly vulnerable. Children under the age of 15 often lack the coordination and reaction time to respond to sudden balance shifts. Adults may also experience injuries, especially if they are inexperienced or attempting tricks. Riders who are overweight or have preexisting orthopedic conditions may also be at higher risk for fractures or joint injuries.
Why Hoverboard Injuries Occur
Hoverboards, while fun and convenient, can pose significant challenges for riders. The self-balancing design requires constant weight shifts and coordination. Common contributing factors to injuries include:
- Lack of Experience: Beginners often overestimate their ability to maintain balance, especially on uneven surfaces.
- High Speeds: Hoverboards can reach speeds up to 10-12 mph, increasing the severity of falls.
- Uneven or Slippery Surfaces: Cracks, gravel, or wet surfaces can easily throw off the balance of the rider.
- Improper Footwear: Riding in loose shoes, sandals, or bare feet increases the likelihood of slipping.
Preventing Hoverboard Injuries
Prevention is key when it comes to hoverboard safety. Dr. Keschner emphasizes the importance of protective gear, proper supervision, and safe riding practices:
Wear Protective Gear
Riders should always wear helmets, wrist guards, elbow pads, and knee pads. Helmets help prevent head injuries, while wrist and knee guards reduce the risk of fractures and soft tissue injuries. Proper protective gear is particularly important for children and beginners who are more prone to falls.
Practice in Safe Environments
Hoverboards should be ridden on smooth, flat surfaces. Dr. Keschner recommends indoor areas such as gymnasiums or smooth sidewalks as ideal locations for beginners. Avoiding rough terrain, stairs, and curbs can significantly reduce the risk of falls.
Follow Weight and Age Guidelines
Each hoverboard comes with manufacturer guidelines regarding minimum and maximum weight limits and recommended age ranges. Riders should adhere to these guidelines to ensure the device functions properly and safely. Overloading a hoverboard or using it at too young of an age can compromise stability and control.
Supervise Children
Parents should supervise children when they ride hoverboards, especially in the early stages. A responsible adult can guide the child in proper riding techniques, help them maintain balance, and ensure safety gear is worn correctly.
Start Slow and Build Skills Gradually
New riders should begin at a slow pace, focusing on balance and control. Avoid tricks or high speeds until a basic proficiency is achieved. Regular practice can help build confidence while minimizing the likelihood of injury.
Treatment for Hoverboard Injuries
Despite prevention efforts, accidents can still occur. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury:
Mild Injuries
Minor sprains, strains, and bruises may be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Physical therapy may be recommended to restore mobility and prevent stiffness.
Fractures
Wrist, arm, or leg fractures often require immobilization with casts or splints. In some cases, bone manipulation may be necessary to align the bone properly before casting. Follow-up X-rays are usually required to ensure proper healing.
Severe Injuries
Severe fractures, dislocations, or injuries involving the head or spine may require surgical intervention. Orthopedic surgeons, like Dr. Keschner, can provide advanced care to ensure proper alignment and recovery, sometimes using innovative techniques to optimize healing.
Why Early Treatment is Important
Seeking prompt medical attention after a hoverboard injury is critical. Delayed care can result in improper healing, decreased range of motion, chronic pain, and long-term complications. Early intervention allows orthopedic specialists to evaluate the injury, develop a treatment plan, and initiate rehabilitation to restore strength and mobility as quickly as possible.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Recovery from a hoverboard injury often includes physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and coordination. Therapy may involve exercises to strengthen the affected muscles, improve joint stability, and prevent future injuries. The Central Orthopedic Group emphasizes individualized treatment plans to meet each patient’s unique needs and ensure safe return to normal activity.
Conclusion
Hoverboards can be fun and exciting, but they carry significant injury risks if safety precautions are not taken seriously. Dr. Mitchell Keschner and the team at the Central Orthopedic Group recommend that riders of all ages wear protective gear, practice in safe environments, follow manufacturer guidelines, and seek medical attention promptly in case of injury.
By taking these steps, hoverboard enthusiasts can reduce their risk of injury while still enjoying the thrill of riding. With proper safety measures and early treatment, most hoverboard injuries can be effectively managed, allowing riders to get back on their boards quickly and safely.
View the original article and video here: News 12 Long Island