With communion and confirmation season in full swing, there has been a major increase in child-related injuries in recent weeks, mainly due to accidents on bouncy castles and trampolines, a clinic that treats minor injuries has said.

According to the Affidea ExpressCare Clinics, which are based in Dublin and Cork, there has been an upsurge in bounce-related sprains and fractures in recent weeks.

The most common types of fractures experienced by children who fall from bouncy castles and trampolines are wrist and elbow fractures, however other injuries can include ankle sprains, lacerations and head injuries.

"May is always busy with communion and confirmation parties and many parents now hire a bouncy castle or trampoline for the occasion. As a result, we are seeing a huge increase in child-related cases, ranging from sprains and fractures to head injuries.

"We are calling on parents to be super vigilant when their children are on bouncy castles or trampolines to minimise the chance of their child incurring a nasty break or sprain," commented Dr David Foley, a consultant in emergency medicine and medical director of the clinics.

The top three bounce-related injuries are:

-Ankle sprain - a minor sprain can be treated with ice and compression at home, however you should seek medical advice if there is severe swelling or pain, if the area is red and warm to touch, or if the child cannot walk on it

-Arm fracture - this can be scary for both the child and the parents and can be very painful. The child may feel faint or sick after the accident. The arm may look deformed, swollen and/or bruised, be sore to touch or move, or there may be bone poking through. You should always seek medical attention if you suspect a fracture

-Dislocation - Children can easily dislocate their arm, shoulder or knee after a fall. The child will be in some pain and it is important to move the affected area as little as possible. Instead, try to stabilise the area in whatever position it is already in. Applying ice may help with pain and reduce the swelling. You should never attempt to pop the bone back into place yourself. Get to a hospital and let a doctor take care of it.