More than 6 million Americans of all ages skate on in-line wheels, or roller blades. This internationally popular sport is not only fun, but it can be an excellent form of aerobic exercise.

Anatomy of a roller blade

Roller blades function much like conventional roller skates; however, they are different in several important ways. Roller blades have a rigid plastic boot, similar to the boot used in snow skiing. They have between three and five polyurethane (plastic) wheels that are arranged in a line and secured to the bottom of the boot. Because the wheels are narrow, roller blades can reach much higher speeds than roller skates. The braking mechanism is also different. The brake pad on roller blades is on the heel of either one or both of the skates, while the brake pad on roller skates is on the toe.

Exercise safety

The number of skating-related injuries has risen with the popularity of roller blades in recent years. The most frequent injuries are bruises and broken arms and legs from falls. Less frequent, but more serious, injuries (such as head and facial injuries) occur when skaters collide with motor vehicles or fall hard.

Injury prevention is a very important aspect of all sports. You can prevent many roller blading injuries by following a few simple rules. Use the appropriate gear designed for skaters, including wrist guards, elbow and knee pads, and a helmet, to prevent bruises, broken bones, and head injuries. Learn how to brake on a flat driveway or empty parking lot. Brake pads, wear down with use and should be replaced before excessively worn; ask your salesperson for replacement guidelines. If you are a beginning skater, make sure you are comfortable starting and stopping on flat surfaces before attempting to go up or down hills. Also, try to skate on surfaces that are relatively free of small debris. Driveways, sidewalks, parks, and empty parking lots are usually ideal. Avoid skating on streets if possible.

Many people wear roller blades when they play street hockey. In addition to the guidelines above, street hockey players should take the following precautions: always keep the blade of the hockey stick below waist level, even while shooting, and use a helmet specifically designed for hockey, which includes a facemask, to help protect your face and mouth.

Remember, head injuries are the most common cause of serious disability or death. Most head injuries can be prevented by routine use of a helmet when you are using your roller blades. Exercise safely, use common sense, and enjoy your roller blades.

Jonathan York, M.D.

Atlanta, Georgia