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American journal of diseases of children (1960)1992; 146(5); 611-614; doi: 10.1001/archpedi.1992.02160170091022

Equestrian injuries in children and young adults.

Abstract: We reviewed the English language scientific literature about equestrian injuries among children and young adults. All studies showed that more females than males were injured, with falls from horses being the most common cause of injury. Fractures were common, and head injuries were associated with the vast majority of deaths (72% to 78%) and hospitalizations (55% to 100%). Although the overall injury rate was low, equestrian athletes are at risk for serious injuries. Pediatricians should know the medical contraindications for participation in equestrian sports and encourage riders to obtain horse safety training and use protective headgear (helmets) approved by the American Society for Testing Materials when riding or working around horses. Pediatricians can play an active role in increasing public awareness of equestrian injuries and in reducing risk of injury.
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Publication Date: 1992-05-01 PubMed ID: 1621666DOI: 10.1001/archpedi.1992.02160170091022Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

This research study reviewed scientific literature on horseback riding injuries among children and young adults, with findings pointing towards a greater injury occurrence in females and head-related injuries accounting for most deaths and hospitalizations.

Equestrian Injuries and Demographics

  • The study critically examined previous sources of scientific literature in the English language that revolved around equestrian injuries among children and young adults.
  • The focus of these studies included many aspects of equestrian injuries such as their nature, demographic patterns, and causes.
  • Based on their findings, it was observed that females were more commonly affected by these injuries than males. However, the study does not elaborate on the reasons underlying this gender disparity.

Types and Causes of Injuries

  • The primary cause of equestrian injuries was recorded as falls from horses.
  • Fractures were reported to be a common type of injury among equestrian athletes.
  • The most alarming observation was related to head injuries which were linked to most deaths (72% – 78%) and caused a significant number of hospitalizations (55% – 100%).

Injury Risks and Prevention

  • Although the overall rate of equestrian injury was reported as low, the study emphasizes the potential risk for serious injuries faced by child and young adult equestrian athletes.
  • The researchers advise pediatricians to familiarize themselves with medical contraindications for participating in equestrian sports. This suggests that certain health conditions could significantly heighten the risk of injury during equestrian activities.
  • The study urges pediatricians to encourage younger riders to take horse safety training and to use American Society for Testing Materials approved helmets when riding or working around horses. This underscores the importance of preventative measures in reducing the risk of injuries.

Role of Pediatricians

  • The paper identifies pediatricians as key players in raising public awareness about the risks of equestrian injuries among children and young adults.
  • Pediatricians are urged to contribute actively to reducing these risks, primarily by providing appropriate advice and guidance to families who are involved in equestrian sports.

Cite This Article

APA
Nelson DE, Bixby-Hammett D. (1992). Equestrian injuries in children and young adults. Am J Dis Child, 146(5), 611-614. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpedi.1992.02160170091022

Publication

American journal of diseases of children (1960)
ISSN: 0002-922X
NlmUniqueID: 0370471
Country: United States
Language: English
Volume: 146
Issue: 5
Pages: 611-614

Researcher Affiliations

Nelson, D E
  • Division of Injury Control, Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, Ga 30333.
Bixby-Hammett, D

    MeSH Terms

    • Adolescent
    • Adult
    • Animals
    • Arm Injuries / epidemiology
    • Athletic Injuries / epidemiology
    • Child
    • Craniocerebral Trauma / epidemiology
    • Female
    • Horses
    • Humans
    • Male

    Citations

    This article has been cited 20 times.
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