Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2026
11:09
Construction of a Realistic, Whole-Body, Three-Dimensional Equine Skeletal Model using Computed Tomography Data
Published on: February 25, 2021
Spine fractures caused by horse riding
Jan Siebenga1, Michiel J M Segers, Matthijs J Elzinga
1Department of Traumatology, Vrije Universiteit medisch centrum, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Summary
Horse riding spinal fractures affect young adults, predominantly females, with most injuries at the thoracolumbar junction. These fractures can lead to significant long-term occupational disabilities, impacting quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Traumatology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Horse riding is a popular recreational and competitive activity.
- Spinal fractures are a serious injury associated with horse riding accidents.
- Understanding the demographic, injury patterns, and long-term outcomes is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the demographic characteristics of patients with horse riding-related spinal fractures.
- To classify these fractures using the AO and Load Sharing classifications.
- To evaluate mid-term radiological and long-term functional outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records and radiological examinations over a 13-year period.
- Fracture classification using AO and Load Sharing systems.
- Long-term functional assessment using the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ-24).
Main Results:
- 32 patients sustained 36 spinal fractures, with a 1:7 male to female ratio and an average age of 33.7 years.
- 78% of fractures occurred at the thoracolumbar junction (Th11-L2), predominantly AO type A.
- Long-term follow-up (average 7.3 years) showed a mean RMDQ-24 score of 5.5, with higher scores in the surgical group and 22% permanent occupational disability.
Conclusions:
- Spinal fractures from horse riding result in substantial short-term effects.
- These injuries can lead to significant long-term functional deficits and occupational disabilities.
- Early and appropriate management is essential to mitigate long-term consequences.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Flail Chest-I
Overview of Flail Chest
Flail chest is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the fracture of three or more adjacent ribs in multiple places. It is most commonly caused by direct impacts and trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or injuries from a steering wheel impact. It can also occur due to falls in elderly individuals with osteoporosis, or assaults involving sharp objects.
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of flail chest is complex, involving fractures of...
Flail chest is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the fracture of three or more adjacent ribs in multiple places. It is most commonly caused by direct impacts and trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or injuries from a steering wheel impact. It can also occur due to falls in elderly individuals with osteoporosis, or assaults involving sharp objects.
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of flail chest is complex, involving fractures of...
01:27Fractures: Bone Repair
Treatment for a fracture is based on the type of break, the bone affected, and the patient's age.
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the procedure...
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the procedure...
01:16Vertebral Column: Regions and Curvature
The vertebral column or spine is a flexible column that supports the head, neck, and body and allows for their movements. It also protects the spinal cord.
Regions of the Vertebral Column
In an adult, the spine is subdivided into five regions: the cervical, the thoracic, the lumbar, the sacral, and the coccygeal region. The spine initially develops as a series of 33 vertebrae; after 20 years of age, the nine bones in the sacral region, five sacral, and four coccygeal bones fuse to form the...
Regions of the Vertebral Column
In an adult, the spine is subdivided into five regions: the cervical, the thoracic, the lumbar, the sacral, and the coccygeal region. The spine initially develops as a series of 33 vertebrae; after 20 years of age, the nine bones in the sacral region, five sacral, and four coccygeal bones fuse to form the...
01:26Flail Chest-II
Managing flail chest, a condition characterized by a segment of the chest wall moving independently from the rest of the thoracic cage, requires a comprehensive approach. It includes a thorough assessment of the patient's condition, a diagnostic evaluation to determine the extent of the injury, and the implementation of appropriate medical interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...
01:14Spinal Cord Injury ll: Pathophysiology
Spinal cord injury progresses through two interconnected phases: primary injury and secondary injury.Primary InjuryPrimary injury happens at the moment of trauma and involves immediate mechanical damage to the spinal cord.Compression happens when broken vertebrae, herniated discs, or accumulating blood (such as a hematoma) press directly against the spinal cord, distorting its normal shape and function. In cases of contusion, the cord is bruised by a blunt force (like penetrating injuries or...