Treadmill machines, so popular at fitness centers and in home gyms, may pose dangerous risks to children. A study recently completed by doctors at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia reported that at least 12 children received serious abrasions when their hands became entangled in treadmills. Six of the children required surgical repair to their hands to allow them to properly extend their fingers.

Researchers investigated reports of children between the ages of 14 months and 7 years who were injured when their hands were caught in treadmill belts. Most of the accidents occurred near the back of the treadmill where the belt raps underneath the machine. Safety experts recommend that treadmill manufacturers make the machines more difficult for children to start, but easier to stop. In addition, parents should keep home based treadmills in a locked room when not in use and remain vigilant when a machine is activated.

If you or your child have been injured on a treadmill, it may be important to contact an attorney who can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there may be time limits within which you must commence suit.



See Also

  1. Fitness Equipment: Overview
  2. Broken Bones: Overview
  3. Bruises: Overview
  4. Children's Health Matters: Overview
  5. Scars: Overview
  6. Skin Disorders: Overview
  7. Wounds: Overview
  Name Size