The Dangers of Water Tubing: Injuries Up 250% in Recent Years

Obviously being pulled in an inner tube behind a speeding boat sounds like a great time, especially for all those young folks out there. However, according to a study by researchers at the Center for Injury Research and Policy of The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, this isn’t such a good idea. Between 1991 and 2009, the annual number of water tubing-related injuries increased by 250%. More than 65 of these incidents are treated in emergency rooms each day during the summer.

The most frequently injured parts of the body were the head and upper extremities and these injuries usually ended up being sprains and strains or soft tissue injuries. Hitting the water or another person were the most common ways the victims were injured. Young people under the age of 20 were the most likely to come away with head injuries due to head collisions between tube riders and Adults were more likely to hurt their knees or come away with sprains or strains. They also sustained more injuries when coming in contact with the water.

On top of highlighting the dangers of tubing, the study's authors also note several precautions that can be taken to help prevent injuries. If the riders follow the rules and regulations that come with the tube, wear a life vest (and yes, a helmet would be a good idea, too), and make sure the driver of the boat acts carefully and responsibly, tubing can still be a fun summer activity.

To read more about this study, follow the below link to MedicalXpress.com: 

"New study finds water-tubing related-injuries up 250 percent"