Treadmill burns rise with new year's exercise resolutions

Plano, Texas — As mom Gracie Piñeda was running on the treadmill at home, she looked down as her three-year-old son’s hand accidentally slipped beneath the treadmill belt. He suffered serious burns. Experts at Medical City Plano’s Burn & Reconstructive Center are warning of the dangers of treadmill-related burn injuries, which happen annually with new year’s resolutions to increase exercise.

Since 2022, the Center has cared for more than 30 children with treadmill-related burn injuries. Many of those injuries involve the hand, which are small enough to easily get caught in a moving treadmill belt. Severe injuries can require surgery, skin-grafts, long-term recovery and permanent scarring.

“Treadmill-related burn injuries can be more serious than people realize and often need specialized care to heal well,” says James Cross, MD, medical director of the Burn & Reconstructive Center at Medical City Plano. “Our team cares for patients across generations and our Child Life Specialist helps kids feel safe and supported during recovery while also guiding families on how to prevent these injuries in the future.”

Carl suffered second and third-degree burns to his right hand. After extensive treatment, the now five-year-old boy has fully recovered. His mother is hoping to help raise awareness of the potential for serious injuries.

To help keep families safe, experts recommend:

• Use the treadmill’s safety stop key
• Use safety barriers to keep children away from the treadmill
• Keep the machine unplugged when not in use

Medical City Plano’s Burn & Reconstructive Center will host an exhibit dedicated to treadmill‑related burn prevention at its annual Burn Prevention Fair on Thursday, Feb. 5, from 4:00pm to 5:30pm at 3820 American Dr. in Plano, Texas. The event is free and open to the public.