Equestrian injuries in the paediatric age group: a two centre study.

The research study is about analyzing the types and frequency of injuries associated with equestrian sports in children who visited two different hospitals for treatment.

Objective of the Study

The primary goal of this study was to assess the frequency, causes, and nature of injuries resulting from equestrian sports in children who visited two accident and emergency departments. This evaluation was done by recording attendances of patients under 16 years of age who were victims of equestrian-related trauma for one year.

Methodology

• The research focused on various elements such as demographic details, the type of injury, injury mechanism, the experience level of the rider, and the use of safety equipment during the equestrian incident.
• The study collected data over one year and observed forty-one attendances due to equestrian-related trauma.

Results of the Study

• Out of the patients observed, 39 were female, and two were male, with a median age of 12 years.
• 31 of the patients were injured while they were mounted on a horse, and 10 were injured while they were dismounted.
• The common types of injuries included soft tissue injuries in both lower and upper limbs, fractures of the upper limbs and minor head injuries.
• In extreme cases, one severe head injury case was recorded, and two patients had to be admitted to the hospital.
• The main cause of injury for those mounted on horses was a fall or throw, and for those dismounted, it was usually due to being trodden on or kicked.

Conclusions of the Study

The results indicate that most equestrian-related trauma in this study was minor in nature. However, it also highlighted the possibility of severe injuries. As a result, the study suggests that emergency physicians working in areas where equestrian sports are popular should be knowledgeable about potential injuries and their respective treatments.