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Bungee Jumping Injury Facts

Even if you haven't seen National Geographic's 1955 documentary on bungee jumping, chances are you're familiar with the practice. For more than a decade, adventure enthusiasts have pursued bungee jumping as an adrenaline rush. Given that the injuries are related to the impact of jumping, here's what to consider before you make that leap.

  1. Head Injuries

    • Head injuries often involve extensive eye damage. They can take the form of vision impairment including temporary blindness, blind spots and hemorrhaging of the retina.

    Shoulder and Back Injuries

    • Shoulder injuries usually occur as a dislocation or strain caused from the tension of the cord. Soft tissue damage in the back area may also affect jumpers.

    Spinal Injuries

    • Although spinal injuries are limited in relation to bungee jumping, they can have the most damaging results. Jumpers may experience compression fractures, near-hangings, neck pain and quadriplegia.

    Injuries in the Lower Extremities

    • The most common area for injuries is in the lower body. Jumpers frequently suffer from peroneal nerve injury, a condition that affects the outer part of the leg below the knee, and may lead to damaged nerves that affect a person's ability to walk.

    Minor Injuries

    • Rope burn and extreme dizziness also occur regularly.

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