Injuries associated with equestrian sports: Epidemiology and mechanism

Equestrian-related injuries—including fatalities—are more common than is generally appreciated, and, since most participants are young, the years of lost productive life are significant. Most injuries can be classified as one of four major mechanisms: falls, crush injuries, kicks, and bites. We present current epidemiologic data and a gamut of injuries illustrating these mechanisms. It is our intent that awareness of the scope of injuries and means of prevention will aid us in the care and education of our patients.