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Occupational vs. non-occupational equestrians: Differences in demographics and injury patterns
Kaitlyn Samuels1, Amber Bettis2, Daniel L Davenport2
1University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA.
Horse riding injuries affect distinct demographics, with occupational injuries impacting working-age males and non-occupational injuries affecting women. Helmets may reduce severe head injuries in recreational riders.
Area of Science:
- Trauma research
- Epidemiology of sports injuries
- Occupational health and safety
Background:
- Millions participate in horseback riding, a significant industry with inherent risks.
- Previous data indicated young females and male professionals are at highest risk for fatal horse-related injuries.
- Lack of detailed investigation into risk factors for severe injury and mortality in specific equestrian populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate demographic and injury pattern differences between occupational and non-occupational horse-related injuries in the US.
- To identify specific risk factors contributing to severe injury and mortality in different equestrian groups.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the 2017 American College of Surgeons National Trauma Databank (ACS NTDB) using ICD-10 codes for horse-related injuries.
- Comparison of demographics, injury types, protective device use, and hospital procedures between occupational and non-occupational incidents.
- Statistical analysis (ANOVA, Pearson's Chi-squared) based on incident location (farm, sports, recreational, residential).
Main Results:
- Falling from a horse was the most common injury mechanism; however, farm-related incidents (occupational and non-occupational) showed higher rates of being struck by a horse.
- Occupational injuries predominantly affected the upper extremities of working-age, minority males; non-occupational injuries most frequently impacted the heads of women across age extremes.
- Helmet use was higher in occupational and non-occupational sports/recreational injuries, correlating with decreased severe head injury incidence.
Conclusions:
- Equine-related trauma is prevalent and affects predictable demographics, suggesting potential for targeted injury prevention strategies.
- Helmets appear to reduce the incidence of severe head injuries.
- Further validation is needed for the efficacy of other protective clothing in preventing equestrian injuries.
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