Although skateboarding and in-line skating were once considered extreme sports, they are now both very common activities for children. Skateboarding and in-line skating involve street skating (using public areas such as sidewalks, steps, handrails, and curbs) or skate parks designed specifically for these sports.

With the growing popularity of skateboarding and in-line skating comes a greater number of injuries. However, the risk of injury can be reduced with taking lessons, use of safety gear including helmets, and following the rules of the road.

The following is information from the American Academy of Pediatrics about types of skateboards and skates and how to prevent injuries. Also included is an overview of common skateboarding and in-line skating injuries.

Skateboards are a deck or board with 2 sets of wheels attached to the deck by trucks. There are several different types of boards, ranging from long boards to smaller vert or street boards....

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