Soft tissue injuries associated with strains and overuse injuries, to joints such as the ankle, are also common. Falls are the most common source of injuries for skate boarders and skaters. Most falls are the result of simple loss of control. Injury to the hand, wrist and elbow occur as the rider puts out a hand to break their fall. Knee injuries occur if the rider falls forward and is not wearing knee-pads.
Injuries are most common in riders who are young and just learning.
In the event of loss of control and a fall helmets, wrist guards and knee pads substantially reduce the risk of injury. These items should be purchased at the same time as the board or skates. This equipment needs to be properly maintained. Helmets are designed to protect the head once. If helmet is involved in a fall or the helmet is dropped or the internal shell of the helmet becomes damaged it needs to be replaced.