Bungee jumping is an extreme sport where participants are attached to an elastic cord that tethers them to a platform or ramp. They then jump headfirst off the elevated surface. The cord recoils, and they land back on the platform or ramp.

It is a great way to experience the thrill of heights and overcoming fear while doing something exciting. It is also a perfect way to de-stress and unwind.

The origin of bungee jumping is thought to be linked to a custom in the South Pacific island of Pentecost, Vanuatu. This ritual was to test men’s manhood and courage. The bungee cords were tied to vines, which was then tied to the ankles of the participant.

In some cases, a bungee cord can be accidentally entangled in the neck of a person, cutting off blood flow or strangling them. This can lead to severe pain, breathing difficulties, and even death.

Another potential injury is to the eyes, where the bungee cords can increase pressure and damage the retina or conjunctiva. These injuries can result in a loss of vision, spots, and eye infections.

Although bungee jumping is considered one of the safest sports, it can still be dangerous. Injuries can occur after a person’s jump is caused by an equipment mishap or tragic accident, as well as if someone is not wearing safety gear or does not follow a safety briefing before jumping.

Most bungee jumping sites use a rubber bungee cord, which is manufactured by tightly woven strands of natural rubber. These cords are connected at the front of the harness to both the thighs and the waist, and they can vary in strength and thickness.

There are different bungee cords available, and many different bungee jump sites use slightly varying cords to maximize their safety. The type of cord and the angle of landing are important factors in determining whether or not a bungee jump will cause pain.

The risk of bruising or broken bones is relatively low when bungee jumping from lower heights, but as the height increases so does the amount of force that is applied to the body. In addition, a softer cord will usually be less painful than a harder cord.

Getting the hang of bungee jumping is not easy, so it is recommended that people start with smaller jumps and work their way up to larger ones. This will help them become more comfortable with the sport and reduce their chances of suffering any serious injuries.

As an added precaution, people who suffer from a heart condition or are pregnant should avoid bungee jumping. It is also not advisable to bungee jump with children.

Injuries to the spine are common during bungee jumping, as the body is subjected to high levels of force when tethered by the bungee cord. This can lead to injuries such as compression fractures and herniated discs.

Spinal cord injuries are particularly common among young adults, and it is estimated that about 20 percent of all bungee jumping injuries involve the spine. The most common spine injuries include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and fractures of the vertebrae.