Children With Concussions On The Rise: Monkey Bars And Swings In Playgrounds Are To Blame

Playground equipment is being blamed for the continuing rise of children with concussions. An increasing percentage of kids get injuries in playgrounds thanks to monkey bars and swings.

Around 21,000 (10 percent) out of 215,000 children treated in emergency rooms had traumatic brain injuries like concussions, according to national 2001-2013 statistics obtained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Majority of the injuries were minor, but all concussions can potentially result in severe outcomes, the Washington Post reported (via the Associated Press).

The study found concussions occur in children aged five to nine, and are more likely to happen to boys. In 2013, it was reported that around 30,000 children got concussions and traumatic brain injuries.

The Signs And Symptoms Of Concussion

Those who have concussions display four prominent symptoms: difficulties in thinking, remembering and concentrating; mood changes (exhibits sadness, anxiety, irritability and getting emotional; physical impediments (headache, dizziness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light and noise and trouble balancing); and sleeping issues. For some, the symptoms of concussion continue for days, weeks or longer, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention wrote.

Teens, young children and adults have a harder time recuperating from concussions. People who experienced concussions in the past are also vulnerable to another one.

Parents Urged To Be More Watchful

The study's researchers advised parents to be more vigilant to prevent their kids from having playground mishaps that can lead to concussions. Parents are urged to ensure the safety and security of playground equipment.

The ground should also be covered by soft material (like sand or wood chips), instead of concrete so that blows are lessened should children fall or trip. According to researchers, it is also important that parents check if a certain playground equipment is appropriate for their kid's age.

Prolonged Rest Not Advisable To Kids With Concussion

It is traditional that children with concussions get rest and avoid physical activity until their symptoms subside. Now, a new research found that kids resuming physical activities immediately recover from concussions faster.

The Canadian research found that 58 percent of children resumed doing physical activities after a week of getting a concussion while 76 percent began exercising after two weeks, Financial Review reported. All these children recovered faster than those who underwent prolonged rest.

According to the researchers, going back to physical activities could help lessen the more dangerous effects of concussion. Doctors do not recommend rigorous physical activities, but light actions like walking can have benefits.