Area of Science:

• Traumatology
• Biomechanics
• Equine Science

Context:

• Horse riding is a popular activity with inherent risks.
• Polytrauma admissions following equestrian accidents warrant investigation into contributing factors.
• The role of rider's hairstyle in equestrian trauma is under-explored.

Purpose:

• To investigate the association between wearing a ponytail and polytrauma in female riders after falling from a horse.
• To determine if ponytails represent a risk factor in equestrian accidents.

Summary:

• A case-control study reviewed polytraumatized patients admitted after horse falls.
• Six out of seven female riders admitted for polytrauma after a horse fall wore ponytails.
• Ponytails were found more frequently in riders admitted after falling from their horse (p<0.005).

Impact:

• Ponytails may increase equestrian accident risk by affecting rider focus and potentially startling horses.
• Findings suggest a potential link between rider's hairstyle and trauma, necessitating further research.
• This study highlights a novel factor to consider in equestrian safety protocols.