Viral 'skull-breaker' or 'tripping' challenge can lead to serious injury, expert warns

Experts strongly discourage netizens from taking part in a dangerous online trend called the "skull-breaker challenge."

According to a report on 'Unang Balita," the viral challenge involves two individuals jumping simultaneously and then getting a third person, situated between them, to follow their lead.

But this is where it gets dangerous: Before the middle jumper could land, the two individuals flanking him — those who got him to jump in the first place — will try to kick his legs, causing him to fall on the ground.

It may be a classic case of slapstick comedy but Dr. Gerald Belandres says this is "very dangerous" as it could lead to several serious injuries, even death.

In an interview, the doctor explained that a person who falls in such a manner can get a concussion or severe head trauma, which can cause internal bleeding, unconsciousness, or even comatose.

Belandres also warned that the "skullbreaker" challenge can also lead to serious bodily injuries, including bone fractures or breakage.

"Nakakatakot ito. Depende kasi sa pagbagsak nito lalo na pag yung katawan ang bumagsak at mas lalo na talaga 'yung ulo. Maaari rin tayong magkaroon ng concussion o 'yung pagkaalog ng utak, pwedeng magkaroon ring head injury kaya maaring mawalan ng malay, maari ring mahilo, maari ring pagsusuka ng grabe," Belandres says.

"Maari rin itong ma-coma tapos maaari din kasing magkaroon ng internal bleeding at, syempre, maari din itong mag-cause ng death," he adds.

As far as the health expert is concerned, the "skull-breaker" challenge is a definite don't-try-this-at-home.

Belandres also reminded viewers that it's important to know what to do should emergency situations arise.

"Ang usual na first aid na ginagawa ay dapat i-assess mo talaga ang victim kung conscious ba siya o hindi. Kung may makikita kang mga open wounds, puwede mo siyang takpan or i-dress ito ng kaunti, then eventually dalhin ito sa hospital," the doctor says. — Margaret Claire Layug/LA, GMA News