Ten years of major equestrian injury: are we addressing functional outcomes?

Journal of Trauma Management & Outcomes, 2009 · DOI: 10.1186/1752-2897-3-2 · Published: February 19, 2009

Simple Explanation

Horseback riding carries a high risk of injury, even when compared to activities like motorcycle riding. This study looked at how well rehabilitation therapy is used for serious injuries from horseback riding. The study found that rehabilitation therapy is not used as much as it should be after severe horseback riding injuries. Increasing therapy services for brain, neck, and skull injuries is needed. The goal is to improve rehabilitation therapy so that people who have been seriously injured while horseback riding can have better long-term outcomes.

Study Duration

10 Years

Participants

151 trauma patients injured while horseback riding

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Rehabilitation therapy is underutilized following severe equestrian trauma.
2
Musculoskeletal and spinal cord injuries were predictive of receiving rehabilitation therapy.
3
Previous injury while horseback riding was predictive of not receiving therapy.

Research Summary

This study aimed to define the incidence and pattern of severe equestrian trauma, identify the current level of in-patient rehabilitation services, describe functional outcomes for patients, and discuss methods for increasing rehabilitation therapy in this unique population. The study found that rehabilitation therapy is significantly underutilized following severe equestrian trauma, and that increased therapy services should target patients with brain, neck and skull injuries. The study concludes that improvements in the initial provision, and follow-up of rehabilitation therapy could enhance functional outcomes in the treatment resistant Western equestrian population.

Practical Implications

Increased Rehabilitation Services

Targeted rehabilitation services for patients with brain, neck, and skull injuries are needed to improve functional outcomes.

Address Self-Reliance

Therapists should acknowledge the priority placed on self-reliance within the Western riding culture to encourage participation in rehabilitation activities.

Equestrian Injury Prevention

Educate riders on preventable causes of injuries, such as inadequate warm-up or choosing risky riding settings.

Study Limitations

1
Patient participation in rehabilitation was reported and not observed, some responses may be biased.
2
Moderate response rate of 55%.
3
The institution is an adult trauma center that does not treat the 25% of injured Canadian riders younger than 16 years of age.

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