Overview
Bicycling is a fun and healthy activity that offers entertainment, exercise, and a practical mode of transportation. It’s a great way for children of various ages to enjoy time with family and friends. However, it’s important to ride safely.
Safety Hand Signals
- Left Turn: Extend left arm straight out.
- Right Turn: Extend right arm straight out or bend left arm at a 90-degree angle, with the hand pointing up.
- Stop: Bend left arm at a 90-degree angle, with the hand pointing down.
Anatomy
Types
Symptoms
Diagnosis & Treatment
Outcomes
Common Injuries
While cycling is generally safe, common injuries include bruises and scrapes. More serious injuries can occur, such as muscle strains, sprains, and fractures, with collarbones and wrists being the most frequently broken. Falls, particularly when landing on an outstretched hand, are common. More severe incidents, such as flipping over handlebars or collisions with vehicles, can lead to head injuries or, in rare cases, fatalities.
In 2000, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reported over 400,000 bicycle-related injuries in children requiring emergency room treatment, with about 17 out of every 1,000 riders needing hospital care.
Age Recommendations
Reducing Risk
- Wear a Helmet: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that emergency rooms treat 26,000 bike-related traumatic brain injuries in children annually. Both parents and children should wear helmets as a safety measure. Learn More
- Obey Traffic Laws: When biking on public roads, you are considered a vehicle. Ride on the right side of the road with traffic, use hand signals for turns and stops, and obey all stop signs and traffic lights. Always look both ways before entering streets or intersections.
- Ride Defensively: Assume that drivers might not see you. Keep an eye out for potential hazards like fallen branches or potholes.
- Avoid High-Traffic Areas: Opt for routes with less traffic to reduce the risk of accidents.
- Stay Alert: Avoid distractions such as headphones or phone use, as these can prevent you from hearing important warnings like horns or sirens.
Application & Aftercare
Managing the Cast
Cast Removal
How does it occur?
Return to Sport
Prevention
Home Exercises
