In-line skating is a popular outdoor sport for all ages. While safety should be every in-line skater's number one concern, one-third of all in-line skaters don't wear protective gear, and teenagers are the least likely to use the injury-preventing equipment.

"Bumps and bruises are the most common injuries for in-line skaters. Protective gear can help prevent these minor injuries and some of the more serious injuries as well," says Dr. David Tearse, associate professor of orthopaedic surgery at the University of Iowa College of Medicine and staff physician at UI Hospitals and Clinics.

Skaters should wear helmets, wrist guards, and knee and elbow pads, Tearse says. "Helmets are extremely important. We don't see a lot of head injuries, but when they do occur, the person is seriously hurt," he says.

Hard, plastic knee and elbow pads specially designed for in-line skating provide the best protection, even though they are more expensive than the soft, basketball-style knee pads. Wrist guards help prevent fractured wrists, one of the most common injuries among in-line skaters. "It's natural to put a hand out when you fall, and the force can fracture the wrist," Tearse says. "The new protective wrist guard is designed with a rigid insert that bends away from the wrist to protect against fractures."

"Where you skate can be just as important as wearing protective equipment," Tearse says. "Beginners should start skating on a flat, traffic-free, smooth surface. Skate with an experienced skater to learn proper techniques," he adds.

Skating next to grass can also help. "If you fall into the grass, it will cushion your fall. Stepping on to the grass is a good way to slow down, especially if the skate brake system is difficult to use. Many manufacturers have changed to a new breaking system that allows skaters to reduce their speed by applying pressure to the heel of the skate, rather than lifting the front of the skate," Tearse says. "It's much easier to let yourself fall when you're wearing protective equipment," he adds.

Tearse also suggests skaters wear light-colored clothing, especially if they are skating at night on the sidewalk where traffic is nearby. Use extreme caution when crossing the street. "Drivers don't expect skaters to cross streets," he adds.

"While wearing protective gear is very important and will help protect you from injury, you still must use common sense when skating," he says.

For more information about preventing injuries when in-line skating, talk to your physician.