Amusement Park Fun and Your Neck

by Karlynn L. Benson, D.C.

It’s one of the pleasures of summer. Going to the amusement park or fair and riding the roller coasters and other rides. You spend the day eating funnel cakes and getting sick from the being tossed around. Then, the next morning, there is pain. Your neck doesn’t want to move in all directions. Chiropractic can help. 

One study for the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC) found that in the six year period from 1997 to 2003, an estimated 2,800 to 4,300 non-occupational emergency-room-treated injuries occurred on mobile amusement rides, defined as rides that are part of a traveling carnival, rented for an event, or used at a mobile amusement park, but not part of fixed location like Walt Disney World or Six Flags.

We all think of roller coasters as causing the most pain and injury. But, according to a research published in the journal Pediatrics, based on emergency room visits, patients under 18 were more likely to have injuries from carousel or merry-go-round! This is thought to be because of the limited restraints, size and the age of most of the riders.

We shouldn’t forget, roller coasters do cause injuries, and are more likely to be more serious.

Amusement Park Best Practices

When you head to the park or fair, remember these recommendations:

• Drink plenty of water. Hydration can keep your muscles from being as stiff and able to take a bit more.
• Take time to do some stretches. Standing or sitting or walking for long periods of time will cause some stiffness. Take time to stretch.
• Read the warning signs. If it says people with previous injuries should not ride the ride. Do NOT ride it. 

The International Association for Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAPAA) provides these tips: 

• Obey listed age, height, weight, and health restrictions.
• Observe all posted ride safety rules, and follow all verbal instructions given by ride operators or provided by recorded announcements.
• Keep hands, arms, legs and feet inside the ride at all times.
• Secure all loose articles, including wallets, change, sunglasses, cell phones, and hats. 
• Do not board a ride impaired.
• Remain seated in the ride until it comes to a complete stop and you are instructed to exit.
• Always use safety equipment provided and never attempt to wriggle free of or loosen restraints or other safety devices.
• Parents should make sure their children can understand and follow safe and appropriate ride behavior.
• Never force anyone, especially children, to ride attractions they don’t want to ride.
• If you see any unsafe behavior or condition on a ride, report it to a supervisor or manager immediately.

The Next Day

If you do wake up the next day with a stiff neck, what should you do? Call and make an appointment to have a full evaluation. Don’t assume you will feel better in a day or two.

You may have whiplash or another other spinal injuries. It is best to understand the injury and start treatment as soon as possible.

A good general rule is if your muscles are sore or swollen, it’s a good idea to apply ice (cold therapy) the affected area.

It’s OK to go eat your funnel cake and enjoy some rides, just be safe and read the warnings. You don’t want the rest of your summer to be painful.