Update highlights safety equipment and emergency action in equestrian sports

A new article in Current Sports Medicine Reports provides an update on advancements in safety equipment and medical coverage for equestrian sports, focusing on Olympic disciplines of dressage, show jumping, and three-day eventing. Considering that an estimated 30 million people a year participate in equestrian sports, and these sports have some of the highest rates of injury among recreational activities, safety is an essential consideration.

Clinical Professor Cindy Lin, MD, authored the report, along with inter-institutional colleagues.

The authors highlight the importance of helmets, safety vests, and specialized tack such as breakaway reins and safety stirrups in reducing injuries. Helmets, which are required in all three Olympic disciplines, have resulted in a fivefold decrease in certain head injuries compared to eras when helmets weren’t required.

The article also emphasizes the critical role of medical planning at equestrian events. This includes creating emergency action plans, coordinating with local EMS, and ensuring that appropriate medical equipment and personnel are available. Specific recommendations include proper spine stabilization protocols, clear communication systems, and preparation for environmental challenges like heat, rain, and lightning. 

This review underscores the need for ongoing safety improvements, interprofessional collaboration, and future research to enhance the health and safety of riders and horses. In her role as Director of Clinical Innovation at The Sports Institute, Dr. Lin is also leading efforts to develop the third film in the existing GamePlan series focused on the emergency response to head and spinal injuries in horse related sports.