Horseback Riding-Related Injuries in Portugal and Prevention Strategies.

The research article examines the increasing number of injuries related to horseback riding in Portugal and suggests potential preventive strategies. It is based on a retrospective study of 216 Portuguese riders with at least one year of experience.

Research Methodology

• The study involves a retrospective cohort of 216 Portuguese riders who were actively engaged in horse riding at the time of the research with at least a year of experience.
• Data was obtained through a questionnaire that collected information on rider demographics, sports-related histories, training workload, specifics of the first two injuries, and the required treatment.
• The researchers used a systematic method to document the riders’ injuries in chronological order.

Key Findings

• Most of the first and second injuries reported by riders were musculoskeletal, usually resulting from falling off the horse during training. These injuries predominantly affected the lower limb.
• Almost 50% of the injury cases required rehabilitation.
• The occurrence of injuries was significantly correlated with the number of training days per week, the rider’s years of experience, their height and weight, and if they practiced other sports.
• The study also found a significant association between the number of injuries and the riding of different horses.

Conclusions and Recommendations

• The study concludes that the most common injuries among horse riders are musculoskeletal and usually affect the extremities.
• As most riders suffer at least one injury during their horse riding practice, the study emphasizes the importance of injury prevention.
• For injury rehabilitation, the research suggests involving a physiatrist and undertaking core strengthening exercises.