Health Tip: Safety on Wheels

(HealthDay News) -- Roller sports -- including roller skating and roller blading, biking, skateboarding and scooters -- are a common cause of injury, especially in children.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions to prevent injuries from roller sports:

Always wear protective gear, including a helmet, knee and elbow pads, and wrist guards.
Keep your wheels on smooth, even surfaces, and away from traffic.
Never allow young children to play roller sports unattended.
Jumps and tricks should only be allowed under close supervision, in a safe and controlled area such as a skate park, and there should be easy access to medical attention if needed.