Rider injury rates and emergency medical services at equestrian events.
Abstract: Horse riding is a hazardous pastime, with a number of studies documenting high rates of injury and death among horse riders in general. This study focuses on the injury experience of cross country event riders, a high risk subset of horse riders. Methods: Injury data were collected at a series of 35 equestrian events in South Australia from 1990 to 1998. Results: Injury rates were found to be especially high among event riders, with frequent falls, injuries, and even deaths. The highest injury rates were among the riders competing at the highest levels. Conclusions: There is a need for skilled emergency medical services at equestrian events.
Publication Date: 1999-02-23 PubMed ID: 10027058PubMed Central: PMC1756135DOI: 10.1136/bjsm.33.1.46Google Scholar: Lookup
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- Journal Article
Summary
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The study sheds light on the inherent risks of horse riding, showing high incident rates of injuries and even fatalities among event riders, and underlines the importance of dedicated medical services at such events.
Introduction and Methodology
- The research focuses on the risks associated with horse riding, particularly concentrating on event riders, a group identified to be involved in riskier activities within the larger demography of horse riders.
- Statistics were gathered from 35 diverse equestrian activities in South Australia, spanning almost a decade from 1990 to 1998.
Findings
- The investigation revealed high injury rates among event riders resulting from frequent falls, suffering injuries, and unfortunately fatalities too. Physical harm was notably more prevalent among those participating at higher competition levels, suggesting a correlation with increased risk.
Conclusion
- In light of these findings, the study emphasizes the imperative need for professional medical emergency services at equestrian events to treat injuries promptly and effectively.
- This could include having ambulance services on standby, a dedicated team of trained first-aiders, and emergency medical tents with facilities to handle severe injuries.
Cite This Article
APA
Paix BR.
(1999).
Rider injury rates and emergency medical services at equestrian events.
Br J Sports Med, 33(1), 46-48.
https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsm.33.1.46 Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Trauma Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Australia.
MeSH Terms
- Accidental Falls / statistics & numerical data
- Animals
- Athletic Injuries / epidemiology
- Athletic Injuries / etiology
- Athletic Injuries / therapy
- Australia / epidemiology
- Data Collection
- Delivery of Health Care
- Emergency Medical Services
- Female
- First Aid
- Horses
- Humans
- Incidence
- Male
- Risk Assessment
- Risk Factors
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Citations
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