A: Roller blading, also known as in-line skating, is an enormously popular pastime and mode of transportation many people use to get to school and work.
Along with its popularity, roller blading is a dangerous sport. Preventing roller blade injuries should be at the top of everyone's list. Based on current trends, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission predicts a sharp increase in injuries due to roller blading.
The CPSC expects hospital emergency rooms will treat an estimated 105,000 in-line skating related injuries in 1995. There were 76,000 in-line skating injuries in 1994 and 37,000 in 1993, according to CPSC estimates. Of the 65,000 children under age 15 who the CPSC projects will sustain in-line skating injuries, about 29,000 will fracture a bone and an estimated 7,000 will injure their heads or faces. The lives of at least 25 people, including 15 victims under age 15, have been claimed by in-line skating accidents since 1992 and the number of deaths more than doubled from 1993 to 1994. CPSC data also indicates that as many as two-thirds of those injured were not wearing safety gear.
The rising injury and death rates associated with roller blading emphasizes the importance of wearing safety gear and taking lessons in safe skating techniques, especially braking and stopping. Investing in a full set of safety gear -- including helmets, elbow and knee pads, wrist guards and gloves -- ultimately saves on the cost, both physical and financial, of medical treatment later.
Q: How can I reduce the stress in my life?
A: There are many new strategies for coping with the stress of daily life, health problems, family and job. At the University Medical Center Stress-Reduction Program several methods are discussed and demonstrated.
The program is based on the practice of "mindfulness," which combines meditation and yoga with modern scientific knowledge. Practicing stress-reduction techniques has been scientifically proven to reduce pain and stress-related symptoms and improve physical and emotional well-being in people facing a wide range of stressors and/or illnesses.
I focus on mindfulness meditation, an awareness of the present moment as you live it. You can learn how to slow down and nurture calmness and self-acceptance by practicing a variety of techniques that enhance awareness, relaxation and well-being. People who have taken this class report reduced pain levels, an increased ability to relax, more energy and enthusiasm for life, improved self-esteem and an ability to cope with the stressors of life more effectively.