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Larson EG, Hasley I, Post EG, Cali MG, Clark SC, McPherson AL, Noble-Taylor KE, Robinson DM, Anderson T, Finnoff J, Adams WM. Incidence of staff injury and illness at the Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022 Olympic and Paralympic Games. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2024; 10:e001835. [PMID: 38645762 PMCID: PMC11029204 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2023-001835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To report epidemiological data regarding injury and illness among the Team USA staff during the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games and Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Methods A retrospective review of all Team USA staff (total staff, N=1703 (62.5% female); total staff days (SD)=34 489) medical encounters during the Tokyo 2020 Games and Beijing 2022 Games was conducted. Details related to injury and illness were evaluated. Incidence with 95% CI per 1000 staff days were calculated. Results A total of 32 illnesses (incidence [95% CI] 0.9 [0.6, 1.2]) and 23 injuries (incidence 0.7 [0.4, 0.9]) were sustained by the Team USA delegation staff members during the Tokyo 2020 Games and Beijing 2022 Games. Female staff reported more illnesses (illnesses proportion (IP) 2.9%; incidence 1.4 [0.8, 2.0]), while male staff incurred more injuries (IP 1.8%; incidence 0.9 [0.5, 1.3]). When stratified by physiological system, dermatological and infectious were the most common systems involved with illness (IP 0.5%; incidence 0.2 [0.1, 0.4]). Injuries to the upper limb were most common (IP 0.3%; incidence 0.3 [0.1, 0.5]). Conclusion Injury and illness rates among the Team USA staff during the Tokyo 2020 Games and Beijing 2022 Games were low, but notable. Knowledge of injury and illness risks contributes to staffing decisions and prevention strategies for staff supporting athletes during competition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily G Larson
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ike Hasley
- Summit Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Woodbury, Minnesota, USA
| | - Eric G Post
- Department of Sports Medicine, United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
- United States Coalition for the Prevention of Illness and Injury in Sport, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
| | - Malia G Cali
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Steadman Philippon Research Institute, Vail, Colorado, USA
| | - Stephanie C Clark
- Family Medicine, Rehabilitation and Performance Medicine Swedish Medical Group, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - April L McPherson
- Emory Sports Performance and Research Center (SPARC), Flowery Branch, Georgia, USA
- Department of Orthopedics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | - David M Robinson
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Travis Anderson
- Department of Sports Medicine, United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
- United States Coalition for the Prevention of Illness and Injury in Sport, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
| | - Jonathan Finnoff
- Department of Sports Medicine, United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
- United States Coalition for the Prevention of Illness and Injury in Sport, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - William M Adams
- Department of Sports Medicine, United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
- United States Coalition for the Prevention of Illness and Injury in Sport, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
- Department of Kinesiology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
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2
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Davies E, Liddiard S, McConn-Palfreyman WJ, Parker JK, Cameron LJ, Williams JM. Anxiety and Depression in British Horseracing Stud and Stable Staff Following Occupational Injury. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3337. [PMID: 37958092 PMCID: PMC10649171 DOI: 10.3390/ani13213337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Horseracing has identified several factors influencing staff wellbeing; however, the relationship between injury, anxiety, and depression is yet to be established. This study investigated anxiety and depression scores and their association to pain management, coping, and help-seeking behaviour in injured British horseracing staff. An online retrospective survey was completed by 175 participants, identifying injury prevalence, coping strategies, occupational risk factors, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores. Analysis identified 65.14% (n = 114) of staff reported anxiety scores above the threshold (≥8) and 59.52% (n = 104) of staff reported depression scores ≥8. Median anxiety and depression scores were higher for staff who viewed their employer as unhelpful (anxiety p = 0.001; depression p = 0.020). Heightened anxiety and depression were associated with an increased likelihood to use pain medication to manage at work, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID's), alcohol, nicotine, and prescription drugs (p < 0.05). Implications for staff wellbeing is evident; anxiety and depression risks are high following injury, which may influence help-seeking behaviour, perceived job security, and coping mechanisms. This paper suggests it is vital to continue to investigate poor mental health and injury in racing staff and the implications for equine welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Davies
- Equine Department, Hartpury University, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK (L.J.C.); (J.M.W.)
| | - Sophie Liddiard
- Equine Department, Hartpury University, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK (L.J.C.); (J.M.W.)
| | | | - John K. Parker
- Sport Department, Hartpury University, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK;
| | - Lorna J. Cameron
- Equine Department, Hartpury University, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK (L.J.C.); (J.M.W.)
| | - Jane M. Williams
- Equine Department, Hartpury University, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK (L.J.C.); (J.M.W.)
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3
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Giusti Gestri L. Wearable technology may assist in reducing jockeys' injuries if integrated into their safety vests: a qualitative study. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1167110. [PMID: 37416317 PMCID: PMC10321524 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1167110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
While the term "safety vests" has been used to capture these products to reduce the potential for harm in jockeys under the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) umbrella, much of the research in this area has focused on factors typically echoing health, well-being, physiological and cognitive function, and performance of horse riders with very little work about examining how its design may reduce the severity of jockeys' injuries. Due to the recent advances in technology and wearable sensors, the author considered a qualitative study focusing on the analysis of a real-life example involving end and co-dependent users in the design development of jockeys' safety vests. This little article offers an overview of the most popular jockeys' injuries, why there is a need for better protection, and also describes how data were collected and present a summary of the key findings to encourage future research in this field, aiming to create a new prototype. High-impact sports may potentially create severe injuries or deaths to athletes: thus, there is a strong faith in the application of wearable sensor data and data science to also enhance jockeys' safety vest performance.
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4
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McDonald SJ, Piantella S, O'Brien WT, Hale MW, O'Halloran P, Kinsella G, Horan B, O'Brien TJ, Maruff P, Shultz SR, Wright BJ. Clinical and Blood Biomarker Trajectories after Concussion: New Insights from a Longitudinal Pilot Study of Professional Flat-Track Jockeys. J Neurotrauma 2023; 40:52-62. [PMID: 35734899 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2022.0169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a recognized need for objective tools for detecting and tracking clinical and neuropathological recovery after sports-related concussion (SRC). Although computerized neurocognitive testing has been shown to be sensitive to cognitive deficits after SRC, and some blood biomarkers have shown promise as indicators of axonal and glial damage, the potential utility of these measures in isolation and combination for assisting SRC diagnosis and tracking recovery is not well understood. To provide new insights, we conducted a prospective study of 64 male and female professional flat-track jockeys (49 non-SRC, 15 SRC), with each jockey undergoing symptom evaluation, cognitive testing using the CogSport battery, and serum biomarker quantification of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), tau, and neurofilament light (NfL) using a Simoa HD-X Analyzer. Measures were performed at baseline (i.e., pre-injury), and 2 and 7 days and 1 and 12 months after SRC. Symptoms were most pronounced at 2 days and had largely resolved by either 7 days or 1 month. CogSport testing at 2 days revealed cognitive impairments relative to both non-concussed peers and their own pre-injury baselines, with SRC classification utility found at 2 days, and to a slightly lesser extent, at 7 days. Relatively prolonged changes in serum NfL were observed, with elevated levels and classification utility persisting beyond the resolution of SRC symptoms and cognitive deficits. Finally, SRC classification performance throughout the 1st month after SRC was optimized through the combination of cognitive testing and serum biomarkers. Considered together, these findings provide further evidence for a role of computerized cognitive testing and fluid biomarkers of neuropathology as objective measures to assist in the identification of SRC and the monitoring of clinical and neuropathological recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart J McDonald
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stefan Piantella
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - William T O'Brien
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew W Hale
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul O'Halloran
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Glynda Kinsella
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ben Horan
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Terence J O'Brien
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Maruff
- The Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sandy R Shultz
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bradley J Wright
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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5
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Davies E, McConn-Palfreyman W, Parker JK, Cameron LJ, Williams JM. Is Injury an Occupational Hazard for Horseracing Staff? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042054. [PMID: 35206242 PMCID: PMC8871636 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Occupational health is a key priority for the horseracing industry, yet little research on occupational injuries exists. This study investigated the prevalence and the effect of injury in British horseracing staff during a 12-month period. An online retrospective survey was answered by 352 participants, identifying self-reported injury prevalence, injury management practices and attitudes towards workplace injury reporting. Chi Squared tests for independence were undertaken. A total of 310 (88.1%) staff reported injuries; risk factors for injury type included self-perceived job security, working hours, and perceived job control. Physical limitations, loss of confidence, workplace changes, and lifestyle implications were reported as consequences of injury. A total of 75.3% (n = 134) of staff were likely to seek time-off following fractures, but only 48.6% (n = 86) would take time-off for concussion. Attitudes towards injury management were influenced by financial circumstances, perceived staff shortages, previous injury experiences, and perceived employer expectations. The high self-reported injury prevalence could result in decreased workforce efficiency, poor physical health, and negative implications on retention and career longevity. The perception of invisible injuries, i.e., concussion, and subsequent management, should be of immediate concern to racing organizations. This paper identifies recommendations to enhance the safety and wellbeing of horseracing staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Davies
- Equestrian Performance Research Centre, Hartpury University, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK; (L.J.C.); (J.M.W.)
- Correspondence:
| | | | - John K. Parker
- Sport and Exercise Research Centre, Hartpury University, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK;
| | - Lorna J. Cameron
- Equestrian Performance Research Centre, Hartpury University, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK; (L.J.C.); (J.M.W.)
| | - Jane M. Williams
- Equestrian Performance Research Centre, Hartpury University, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK; (L.J.C.); (J.M.W.)
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6
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Baldini N, Kahn A, Willinger R, Gueutier A, Kün-Darbois JD, Fournier HD, Bernard F, Le Masson B. Cranio-maxillo-facial injuries in professional jockeys: A systematic review. Sci Sports 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scispo.2021.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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7
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Mizobe F, Takahashi Y, Kusano K. Risk Factors for Jockey Falls in Japanese Thoroughbred Flat Racing. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 106:103749. [PMID: 34670697 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Jockey safety is of paramount importance from welfare perspective and public perception. This retrospective case-control study aims to identify risk factors associated with jockey falls (JF) in flat races of Japan Racing Association (JRA). JF in 715,210 race starts by 74,328 horses at 10 racecourses from 2003 to 2017 were reviewed. Data were extracted from a database maintained by JRA and from official accident reports issued by race stewards. Seventeen possible risk factors were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression, to identify those significantly associated with JF. A total of 992 JF incidents were recorded, with an incidence rate of 1.39 falls per 1,000 starts (95% CI: 1.30-1.48). 6 risk factors were significantly associated with JF. Odds increased with horses that sustained catastrophic musculoskeletal injury (CMI) (OR: 203; CI: 169-241; P < 0.001). Increased odds were also associated with dirt track surfaces (OR: 1.99; CI: 1.74-2.29; P < 0.001), apprentice jockeys (OR: 1.43; CI: 1.21-1.68; P < 0.001), smaller track sizes (OR: 1.41; CI: 1.24-1.61; P < 0.001), larger fields (OR: 1.25; CI: 1.07-1.47; P = 0.005), and longer race distances (OR per 200 m: 1.05; CI: 1.01-1.09; P = 0.02). Since CMI was identified as a major contributing factor for JF, measures to minimize CMI may lead to improvement of jockey safety. The increased odds associated with apprentice jockeys may indicate the importance of jockey education and training. For jockey safety, proper staffing of medical professionals especially for races on dirt, smaller track, larger fields, and longer distances is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumiaki Mizobe
- Racehorse Hospital, Miho Training Center, Japan Racing Association, Ibaraki, Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Yuji Takahashi
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, Ibaraki, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kanichi Kusano
- Equine Department, Japan Racing Association, Ibaraki, Tokyo, Japan
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8
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Davies E, McConn-Palfreyman W, Williams J, Lovell G. A narrative review of the risk factors and psychological consequences of injury in horseracing stable staff. COMPARATIVE EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.3920/cep200073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Horseracing stable staff have a multifaceted role, acting as care givers, skilled athletes and equine experts, resulting in inherent high emotional, physical and mental demands. Despite these demands, and reports of significant injury risk to those working in racing at ground level, there has been no research investigating the psychological risk factors for injury in UK racing stable staff and how psychological responses to injury may affect long term mental health and wellbeing. With mental health at the forefront of industry consideration, this narrative review aimed to reflect on the current literature to propose occupational, life and social stressors that may be increasing the risk of injury in racing staff. In addition, this review aims to apply current injury theory to propose whether stable staff are at heightened risk of injury mismanagement. A literature search was undertaken to investigate the psychological aspects of injury, using five search engines and the following key words: injury, psychological responses, occupational, sport and/or athlete, equestrian, horseracing, jockey, risk of injury, rehabilitation, and injury minimisalisation. Articles were selected based on relevance to review aims, and research findings were synthesised under two primary areas: predictors of injury (working hours, job security, job control, life stressors, mental health and drug misuse) and responses to injury (positive and negative responses to injury, the role of social support, rehabilitation adherence, and injury minimalisation). Whilst there are limitations to narrative reviews, this study provides a novel interpretation of injury risk and responses specific to staff working in horseracing, where injury-related challenges are currently a key focus for sector employees, managerial staff and racing organisations. Recommendations for further research have been made to direct the advancement of knowledge in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Davies
- Hartpury University, Hartpury House, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL193BE, United Kingdom
| | | | - J.M. Williams
- Hartpury University, Hartpury House, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL193BE, United Kingdom
| | - G.P. Lovell
- Hartpury University, Hartpury House, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL193BE, United Kingdom
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Marroochydore, Qld 4558, Australia
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9
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Ryan KD, Brodine J, Pothast J, McGoldrick A. Medicine in the Sport of Horse Racing. Curr Sports Med Rep 2020; 19:373-379. [PMID: 32925377 DOI: 10.1249/jsr.0000000000000750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Horseracing is among the most popular and increasingly lucrative industry sports in the nation. The average jockey must control a thoroughbred horse 10 times their weight that may act unpredictably whether at rest or full gallop resulting in falls, kicks, or even biting injuries. Despite the risks, jockeys do not have access to the same quality of medical care that is standard in similarly profitable sports organizations. Beyond the mental and physical demands of training and performance endured by any professional athlete, jockeys are confronted with health challenges unique to their sport. In this review of the literature, we aim to educate sports medicine physicians regarding the underlying causes of injuries, describe injury management, and make recommendations for appropriate preventive strategies. Overall, there is a void of literature, and so our authors offer expert opinion and encourage others to get involved in making this a safer sport.
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10
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Mizobe F, Takahashi Y, Kusano K. Epidemiology of jockey falls and injuries in flat and jump races in Japan (2003-2017). J Equine Sci 2020; 31:101-104. [PMID: 33376447 PMCID: PMC7750638 DOI: 10.1294/jes.31.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Jockey safety is of paramount importance from the standpoint of welfare and public
perception. Thus, an understanding of the epidemiology and associated risk factors is
necessary to implement measures to reduce the jockey falls (JFs) and jokey injuries (JIs).
This descriptive epidemiological study investigated the occurrence of JFs and JIs in
715,210 and 25,183 rides in flat and jump races, respectively, from 2003 to 2017. In flat
races, the incidence rates of JFs and JIs were 1.4 and 0.6 per 1,000 rides, respectively.
In jump races, they were 44.4 and 18.1 per 1,000 rides, respectively. In flat races, 56.8%
of JFs at corners resulted in JIs. In jump races, the major causes of JFs and JIs were
lost balance and hampered by a fallen horse at an obstacle. Our findings provide a basis
to design a future study analyzing risk factors for JFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumiaki Mizobe
- Racehorse Hospital, Miho Training Center, Japan Racing Association, Ibaraki 300-0493, Japan
| | - Yuji Takahashi
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, Tochigi 329-0412, Japan
| | - Kanichi Kusano
- Equine Department, Japan Racing Association, Tokyo 106-8401, Japan
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11
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Ryan K, Garruppo G, Alexander K, Hluchan CM, Lincoln AE. Injuries among Maryland jockeys during thoroughbred racing: 2015-2019. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2020; 6:e000926. [PMID: 33354351 PMCID: PMC7709501 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2020-000926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Our goal was to characterise jockey injuries at Maryland racetracks during thoroughbred racing activities over 4 years using medical records maintained by the sports medicine team. Methods Injury data were prospectively gathered by sports medicine physicians who were onsite for all thoroughbred racing activities in Maryland from 12 September 2015 to 5 May 2019 to evaluate and treat any injury to the jockeys. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, rates with corresponding 95% CIs and proportions) of injury types, body parts, mechanisms, severity and location on track were calculated. Results Over nearly 4 years of racing and 45 000 mounts, there were 204 injuries involving 184 incidents and 131 falls during those races. The vast majority of injuries (80%) was related to soft tissue, while 4% were concussions. Most injuries involved the lower extremity (31%) or upper extremity (26%) and typically resulted from a fall from the horse. Among all incidents, 79.3% (n=146) resulted in an injury, while 76.3% (n=100) of falls resulted in an injury. We identified a significant proportion of injuries (41%) in and around the starting gate. Over a quarter of incidents resulting in injury required further medical care in hospital or other medical facility, while surgery was required in 2.5% of injuries. Conclusion Access to a consistent group of sports medicine providers facilitated jockey injury reporting and tracking. The majority of jockey injuries is related to soft tissue and results from falls, while the starting gate area is associated with the greatest proportion of injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Ryan
- Family Medicine, MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Gabrielle Garruppo
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kezia Alexander
- MedStar Sports Medicine Research Center, MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Andrew E Lincoln
- MedStar Sports Medicine Research Center, MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland, USA.,Rehabilitation Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, District of Columbia, USA
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12
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13
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Fortina M, Maniscalco P, Carulli C, Meccariello L, Colasanti GB, Carta S. Jockey injuries during the Siena "Palio". A 72-year analysis of the oldest horse race in Italy. Injury 2019; 50 Suppl 4:S56-S59. [PMID: 30910241 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2019.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Horse racing is a hazardous sport. We analyzed the incidence and characteristics of jockey injuries in a typical horse race. METHODS We analyzed all injuries sustained by 224 jockeys in the last 72 years. RESULTS It was found that in 96.1% of the races there was at least one fall and in 28.6% of the races 50% or more of the jockeys fell. In 43.4% of the falls, the jockey was taken to the emergency room. Comparing the Palio with traditional races in other countries, a higher injury incidence rate was observed for every 100 falls (109.884 vs 27-59) and a lower concussion rate/100 falls (0.97 vs 1.8-7.4). CONCLUSION The Palio is one of the most threatening races that continues today. Jockeys are at greater risk for a fall than any other race in the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Fortina
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital of Siena, V.le Bracci, n°14-16, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Pietro Maniscalco
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, Piacenza, Italy.
| | | | - Luigi Meccariello
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Vito Fazzi Hospital, Lecce, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Battista Colasanti
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital of Siena, V.le Bracci, n°14-16, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Serafino Carta
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital of Siena, V.le Bracci, n°14-16, 53100 Siena, Italy.
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14
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Fortina M, Maniscalco P, Carulli C, Meccariello L, Colasanti GB, Carta S. WITHDRAWN: Jockey injuries during the Siena "Palio". A 72-year analysis of the oldest horse race in Italy. Injury 2019; 50:365-368. [PMID: 30580929 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2018.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The Publisher regrets that this article is an accidental duplication of an article that has already been published in Injury, 50(2) 2019 365–368, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.injury.2018.12.014. The duplicate article has therefore been withdrawn. The full Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Fortina
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital of Siena, V.le Bracci, n̊14-16, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Pietro Maniscalco
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, PiacenzaItaly.
| | | | - Luigi Meccariello
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Vito Fazzi Hospital, LecceItaly.
| | - Giovanni Battista Colasanti
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital of Siena, V.le Bracci, n̊14-16, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Serafino Carta
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital of Siena, V.le Bracci, n̊14-16, 53100 Siena, Italy.
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O'Connor S, Warrington G, McGoldrick A, Cullen S. Epidemiology of Injury Due to Race-Day Jockey Falls in Professional Flat and Jump Horse Racing in Ireland, 2011-2015. J Athl Train 2017; 52:1140-1146. [PMID: 29154693 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-52.12.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Professional horse racing is considered a high-risk sport, yet the last analysis of fall and injury incidence in this sport in Ireland was completed between 1999 and 2006. OBJECTIVE To provide an updated analysis of the fall and injury incidence in professional flat and jump horse racing in Ireland from 2011 through 2015, compare it with the previous analysis, and detail the specific types and locations of injuries. DESIGN Descriptive epidemiology study. SETTING A medical doctor recorded all injuries that occurred at every official flat and jump race meeting for the 2011 through 2015 seasons using standardized injury-report forms. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Injury and fall rates and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported for flat and jump racing. Incidence rate ratios and 95% CIs were calculated between flat and jump racing, between the 1999-2006 analysis and the current results, and between 2011 and 2015. The distribution of injuries for type and location of injury was reported. RESULTS Compared with flat racing, jump racing had significantly more falls per 1000 rides (49.5 versus 3.8), injuries per 1000 rides (10.1 versus 1.4), and injuries per 1000 meetings (776.0 versus 94.1). However, the rate of injuries per 1000 falls was significantly higher in flat racing (352.8 versus 203.8). An increase in injuries per 1000 falls between 2011 and 2015 was found in flat racing ( P = .005). Since the previous analysis, a significant increase in injuries per 1000 rides and falls was noted in jump racing. Soft tissue injuries were predominant in flat and jump racing (61.54% and 68.80%, respectively), with fractures the second most common injury (15.38% and 18.06%, respectively). Concussions were more prevalent from flat-racing falls (incidence rate ratio = 0.30; 95% CI = 0.15, 0.61). The lower limb was the most frequent location of injury (32.89%) in flat racing; however, in jump racing, upper limb injuries (34.97%) were predominant. CONCLUSIONS An update on professional flat- and jump-racing fall and injury epidemiology is provided. Further research to identify risk factors for injury, design and investigate the feasibility of injury-prevention strategies, and document their effects on fall and injury incidence is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobhan O'Connor
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Ireland
| | - Giles Warrington
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Limerick, Ireland
| | | | - SarahJane Cullen
- Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Science, Waterford Institute of Technology, Ireland
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Landolt K, Maruff P, Horan B, Kingsley M, Kinsella G, O'Halloran PD, Hale MW, Wright BJ. Chronic work stress and decreased vagal tone impairs decision making and reaction time in jockeys. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2017; 84:151-158. [PMID: 28732265 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2017.07.238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The inverse relationship between acute stress and decision-making is well documented, but few studies have investigated the impact of chronic stress. Jockeys work exhaustive schedules and have extremely dangerous occupations, with safe performance requiring quick reaction time and accurate decision-making. We used the effort reward imbalance (ERI) occupational stress model to assess the relationship of work stress with indices of stress physiology and decision-making and reaction time. Jockeys (N=32) completed computerised cognitive tasks (Cogstate) on two occasions; September and November (naturally occurring lower and higher stress periods), either side of an acute stress test. Higher ERI was correlated with the cortisol awakening responses (high stress r=-0.37; low stress r=0.36), and with decrements in decision-making comparable to having a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 in the high stress period (p<0.001) The LF/HF ratio of heart rate variability impacted the association of ERI with decision-making. Potentially, this may be attributed to a 'tipping point' whereby the higher ERI reported by jockeys in the high stress period decreases vagal tone, which may contribute to reduced decision-making abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Landolt
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Paul Maruff
- The Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ben Horan
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - Michael Kingsley
- Exercise Physiology, La Trobe Rural Health School, Bendigo, Victoria, 3552, Australia
| | - Glynda Kinsella
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Paul D O'Halloran
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Matthew W Hale
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Bradley J Wright
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3086, Australia.
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Blunt injuries related to equestrian sports: results from an international prospective trauma database analysis. INTERNATIONAL ORTHOPAEDICS 2017; 41:2105-2112. [PMID: 28801837 DOI: 10.1007/s00264-017-3592-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The objective of this study was to investigate the nature, management, and outcome of major injuries related to equestrian sports and to define the at-risk groups for serious and life-threatening injuries. METHODS We analyzed demographic, pre-hospital, clinical, and outcome data from an international population-based prospective trauma database (TraumaRegister DGU®). Patients with major injuries (Injury Severity Score [ISS] ≥9 points) related to equestrian sports activities were included (January 1, 1993, to December 31, 2012). Clinical and outcome parameters were stratified for four different types of injury mechanisms: fall from horse (FFH), horse-kick (HK), horse crush (HC), and carriage-related accidents (CRA). Participating countries included Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, Slovenia, Belgium, Luxembourg, and The Netherlands. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS (Version 22, IBM Inc., Armonk, NY). RESULTS The Database identified 122,000 documented patients, of whom 679 were equestrian incidents. Among these, the four major injury mechanisms were: FFH (n = 427), HK (n = 188), HC (n = 34), and the CRA (n = 30). Females were more likely to sustain FFH (75.5%, p < 0.001), leading to head injuries (n = 204, 47.8%) and spinal fractures (n = 109, 25.5%). HK injuries often resulted in facial fractures (29.3%, p < 0.001). Individuals sustaining HC injuries had a high risk for pelvic (32.4%, p < 0.001) and abdominal injuries (35.2%, p < 0.001). In contrast to the FFH cohort, the CRA cohort involved older males (57 ± 13 years), with chest (63.3% p = 0.001), and extremity injuries, resulting in significant injury severity (ISS 20.7 ± 10.6). In the CRA cohort, 16% were in haemorrhagic shock on scene, and also the highest in-hospital mortality (14.8%, p = 0.006) was observed. CONCLUSIONS Young female riders are at risk from falling, horse-kicks, and crush-injuries. Older males in carriage-related accidents sustained the highest injury severity and mortality rate, and must specifically be targeted by future prevention initiatives. Level of evidence Descriptive Epidemiologic Study, Level II.
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Wylie CE, McManus P, McDonald C, Jorgensen S, McGreevy P. Thoroughbred fatality and associated jockey falls and injuries in races in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, Australia: 2009-2014. Vet J 2017; 227:1-7. [PMID: 29031324 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2017.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Monitoring racehorse fatality and associated jockey falls provides benchmarks for intervention strategies. The aims of this study were to describe the incidence of and reasons for fatalities in Thoroughbred horses during flat races in the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales (NSW), Australia, and to describe reported jockey falls and injuries associated with racehorse fatalities. A cohort study identified all racehorse fatalities reported through Racing NSW for the 2009-2010 to 2013-2014 racing seasons. Risks of racehorse fatality, fatal musculoskeletal injury, spontaneous death (as distinct from euthanasia) and racehorse fatality associated jockey falls and injuries were calculated using Poisson regression. A total of 167 horse fatalities were reported, with an overall incidence of 0.59 deaths/1000 starts. Forty-nine reasons for horse fatality were reported, although post-mortem examinations were conducted on only 52/165 (31.5%) horses. Musculoskeletal injury accounted for 144/167 (86.2%) fatalities, with an incidence of 0.52/1000 starts. Fractures comprised 96/167 (57.5%) fatalities, with the fetlock or proximal sesamoid bones being the most common fracture location, comprising 36/96 (37.5%) fractures. Only 22/166 (13.3%) racehorse fatalities were due to spontaneous death, representing an incidence of 0.08/1000 starts. A total of 50 racehorse fatality associated jockey falls were reported (incidence of 0.18/1000 starts), with 32 reported jockey injuries (incidence of 0.12/1000 starts). Most racehorse fatality associated jockey injuries occurred to the limbs (17/32, 53.1%), particularly the upper limb. The estimates for both horse fatality and associated jockey injury were comparable with previous estimates from other jurisdictions internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Wylie
- Rossdales Equine Hospital, Cotton End Road, Exning, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7NN, UK.
| | - P McManus
- School of Geosciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - C McDonald
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - S Jorgensen
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - P McGreevy
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
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Curry BA, Hitchens PL, Otahal P, Si L, Palmer AJ. Australian insurance costs of jockeys injured in a race-day fall. Occup Med (Lond) 2015; 66:222-229. [PMID: 26568195 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqv150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The risk of falls and injuries in horseracing varies with sex and experience of the jockey. AIMS To determine whether the incidence and costs of insurance claims also differ by such factors. METHODS A retrospective analysis of compensation claims by flat racing and jumps jockeys injured in a race-day fall in Australia between 2002 and 2009. Claim incidence, costs, absentee days and location, cause and type of injury sustained were described, stratified by jockey sex, age and experience. RESULTS The incidence of claims by flat and jumps racing was 0.6 and 6.5 per 1000 rides, respectively. The mean cost of a claim was 43374 Australian dollars (AUD) (SD 249612) in flat racing and AUD 52589 (SD 157808) in jumps racing. The incidence of claims was greater for experienced flat racing jockeys than apprentices but mean costs were higher for apprentices. After adjustment for experience, there were no sex differences in the average cost or incidence of flat racing jockeys' claims. In general, the fall incidence declined, but the claim incidence and median cost of a claim increased, with age. On average, jockeys were absent from work for 9 weeks following a substantive injury. Limb fractures (33%), muscular or soft tissue injuries (28%) and contusions (17%) were the most commonly reported injuries. CONCLUSIONS The economic costs of jockey injuries sustained in race-day falls are considerable. Identification of differences in incidence and costs of insurance claims between jockey characteristics will assist decision makers in the development and assessment of targeted safety strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A Curry
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 23, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - P L Hitchens
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 23, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - P Otahal
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 23, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - L Si
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 23, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - A J Palmer
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 23, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
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Swanberg JE, Clouser JM, Bush A, Westneat S. From the Horse Worker’s Mouth: A Detailed Account of Injuries Experienced by Latino Horse Workers. J Immigr Minor Health 2015; 18:513-521. [DOI: 10.1007/s10903-015-0302-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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A Cross-Sectional Study of Horse-Related Injuries in Veterinary and Animal Science Students at an Australian University. Animals (Basel) 2015; 5:951-64. [PMID: 26479478 PMCID: PMC4693196 DOI: 10.3390/ani5040392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Specific estimates of the risk of horse-related injury (HRI) to university students enrolled in veterinary and animal sciences have not been reported. This study aimed to determine the risk of student HRI during their university education, the nature and management of such injuries. A retrospective questionnaire solicited demographic information, data on students’ equine experience prior to and during their educational programs, and on HRI during their program of study. Of 260 respondents, 22 (8.5%) reported HRI (27 incidents). Including concurrent injuries the most commonly injured body parts were the foot or ankle (nine of 32 injures), the upper leg or knee (eight of 32), and hands (three of 32). Trampling and being kicked by a hind limb were each associated with 30.4% of HRI, and 13% with being bitten. Bruising (91.3% of respondents) and an open wound (17.4%) were most commonly described. No treatment occurred for 60.9% of incidents; professional medical treatment was not sought for the remainder. Most incidents (56.5%) occurred during program-related work experience placements. Although injury rates and severity were modest, a proactive approach to injury prevention and reporting is recommended for students required to handle horses as part of their education. Student accident and injury data should be monitored to ensure effective evaluation of risk-reduction initiatives. The risk and nature of university student horse-related injury (HRI) was studied. Of 260 students, 22 (8.5%) reported HRI (27 incidents). Including multiple injuries, reports described involvement of the foot or ankle (nine of 32 injures), upper leg or knee (eight of 32), and hands (three of 32). Trampling (30.4%) and being kicked (30.4%) accounted for most HRI. The injuries were usually bruising (91.3%) or an open wound (17.4%). Most (60.9%) injuries were untreated; professional medical treatment was not sought for the rest. Most incidents (56.5%) occurred during program-related off-campus work experiences. A proactive approach to injury prevention is recommended for students handling horses.
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Curry BA, Hitchens PL, Otahal P, Si L, Palmer AJ. Workplace Injuries in Thoroughbred Racing: An Analysis of Insurance Payments and Injuries amongst Jockeys in Australia from 2002 to 2010. Animals (Basel) 2015; 5:897-909. [PMID: 26479392 PMCID: PMC4598712 DOI: 10.3390/ani5030390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is no comprehensive study of the costs of horse-related workplace injuries to Australian Thoroughbred racing jockeys. OBJECTIVES To analyse the characteristics of insurance payments and horse-related workplace injuries to Australian jockeys during Thoroughbred racing or training. METHODS Insurance payments to Australian jockeys and apprentice jockeys as a result of claims for injury were reviewed. The cause and nature of injuries, and the breakdown of payments associated with claims were described. RESULTS The incidence of claims was 2.1/1000 race rides, with an average cost of AUD 9 million/year. Race-day incidents were associated with 39% of claims, but 52% of the total cost. The mean cost of race-day incidents (AUD 33,756) was higher than non-race day incidents (AUD 20,338). Weekly benefits and medical expenses made up the majority of costs of claims. Fractures were the most common injury (29.5%), but head injuries resulting from a fall from a horse had the highest mean cost/claim (AUD 127,127). CONCLUSIONS Costs of workplace injuries to the Australian Thoroughbred racing industry have been greatly underestimated because the focus has historically been on incidents that occur on race-days. These findings add to the evidence base for developing strategies to reduce injuries and their associated costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverley A Curry
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart TAS 7000, Australia.
| | - Peta L Hitchens
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart TAS 7000, Australia.
| | - Petr Otahal
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart TAS 7000, Australia.
| | - Lei Si
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart TAS 7000, Australia.
| | - Andrew J Palmer
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart TAS 7000, Australia.
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Hitchens PL, Curry B, Blizzard CL, Palmer AJ. A decision tree model for the implementation of a safety strategy in the horse-racing industry. Inj Prev 2014; 21:109-14. [PMID: 25216673 DOI: 10.1136/injuryprev-2014-041223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The profession of a horse-racing jockey is a dangerous one. We developed a decision tree model quantifying the effects of implementing different safety strategies on jockey fall and injury rates and their associated costs. METHODS Data on race-day falls were obtained from stewards' reports from August 2002 to July 2009. Insurance claim data were provided by Principal Racing Authorities and workers' compensation authorities in each jurisdiction. Fall and claim incidence data were used as baseline rates. The model considered (1) the status quo, in which policy was unchanged; and (2) compared it with four hypothetical changes in policy that restricted apprentice jockeys from riding less-accomplished horses, with the aim of improving safety by reducing incidence of injurious jockey falls. Second-order Monte Carlo simulations were conducted to account for uncertainties. RESULTS The point estimate for mean costs of falls under the status quo was $30.73/ride, with falls by apprentice jockeys with <250 career race rides riding horses with less than five race starts contributing the highest costs ($98.49/ride). The hypothetical safety strategies resulted in a 1.04%-5.07% decrease in fall rates versus status quo. For three of the four strategies, significant reductions of 8.74%-13.13% in workers' compensation costs over one single race season were predicted. Costs were highly sensitive to large claims. CONCLUSIONS This model is a useful instrument for comparing potential changes in cost and risks associated with implementing new safety strategies in the horseracing industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peta L Hitchens
- Menzies Research Institute Tasmania, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Beverley Curry
- Menzies Research Institute Tasmania, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - C Leigh Blizzard
- Menzies Research Institute Tasmania, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Andrew J Palmer
- Menzies Research Institute Tasmania, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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Carmichael SP, Davenport DL, Kearney PA, Bernard AC. On and off the horse: mechanisms and patterns of injury in mounted and unmounted equestrians. Injury 2014; 45:1479-83. [PMID: 24767580 PMCID: PMC4125461 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2014.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Revised: 03/08/2014] [Accepted: 03/22/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study is to determine whether discrepant patterns of horse-related trauma exist in mounted vs. unmounted equestrians from a single Level I trauma center to guide awareness of injury prevention. METHODS Retrospective data were collected from the University of Kentucky Trauma Registry for patients admitted with horse-related injuries between January 2003 and December 2007 (n=284). Injuries incurred while mounted were compared with those incurred while unmounted. RESULTS Of 284 patients, 145 (51%) subjects were male with an average age of 37.2 years (S.D. 17.2). Most injuries occurred due to falling off while riding (54%) or kick (22%), resulting in extremity fracture (33%) and head injury (27%). Mounted equestrians more commonly incurred injury to the chest and lower extremity while unmounted equestrians incurred injury to the face and abdomen. Head trauma frequency was equal between mounted and unmounted equestrians. There were 3 deaths, 2 of which were due to severe head injury from a kick. Helmet use was confirmed in only 12 cases (6%). CONCLUSION This evaluation of trauma in mounted vs. unmounted equestrians indicates different patterns of injury, contributing to the growing body of literature in this field. We find interaction with horses to be dangerous to both mounted and unmounted equestrians. Intervention with increased safety equipment practice should include helmet usage while on and off the horse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel P Carmichael
- General Surgery Residency Program, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA.
| | - Daniel L Davenport
- General Surgery Residency Program, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Paul A Kearney
- Department of Surgery, Section of Acute Care Surgery and Trauma, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Andrew C Bernard
- Department of Surgery, Section of Acute Care Surgery and Trauma, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
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Chang VC, Ruseckaite R, Collie A, Colantonio A. Examining the epidemiology of work-related traumatic brain injury through a sex/gender lens: analysis of workers’ compensation claims in Victoria, Australia. Occup Environ Med 2014; 71:695-703. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2014-102097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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The epidemiology of horse-related injuries for different horse exposures, activities, and age groups in Queensland, Australia. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2014; 76:205-12. [DOI: 10.1097/ta.0b013e3182a9007e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Hitchens PL, Hill AE, Stover SM. Jockey Falls, Injuries, and Fatalities Associated With Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse Racing in California, 2007-2011. Orthop J Sports Med 2013; 1:2325967113492625. [PMID: 26535231 PMCID: PMC4555501 DOI: 10.1177/2325967113492625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the popularity of the horse racing industry in the United States and the wide recognition that horse racing is one of the most hazardous occupations, little focused research into the prevention of falls by and injuries to jockeys has been conducted. PURPOSE To describe the incidence rates and characteristics of falls and injuries to Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing jockeys in the state of California. STUDY DESIGN Descriptive epidemiology study. METHODS Data on race-day falls and injuries were extracted from jockey accident reports submitted to the California Horse Racing Board from January 2007 to December 2011. Denominator data, number of jockey race rides, were obtained from commercial and industry databases. Jockey fall, injury, and fatality incidence rates and ratios in Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse flat races were estimated using Poisson regression. Characteristics of falls and injuries are described and compared. RESULTS In Thoroughbred races, 184 jockey injuries occurred from 360 reported jockey falls, 180,646 race rides, 23,500 races, and 3350 race meetings. In Quarter Horse races, 85 jockey injuries occurred from 145 jockey falls, 46,106 race rides, 6320 races, and 1053 race meetings. Jockey falls occurred at a rate of 1.99 falls per 1000 rides in Thoroughbred races, with 51% of falls resulting in jockey injury, and 3.14 falls per 1000 rides in Quarter Horse races, with 59% of falls resulting in jockey injury. The majority of falls occurred during a race, with catastrophic injury or sudden death of the horse reported as the most common cause in both Thoroughbred (29%) and Quarter Horse (44%) races. During the period studied, 1 jockey fatality resulted from a fall. Jockey fall rates were lower but injury rates were comparable to those reported internationally. CONCLUSION On average, a licensed jockey in California can expect to have a fall every 502 rides in Thoroughbred races and every 318 rides in Quarter Horse races. While jockey fall rates were lower, injury rates were similar to those in other racing jurisdictions. The high proportion of jockey falls caused by horse fatalities should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peta L Hitchens
- J.D. Wheat Veterinary Orthopedic Research Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, USA. ; California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Ashley E Hill
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Susan M Stover
- J.D. Wheat Veterinary Orthopedic Research Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, USA
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Filby M, Jackson C, Turner M. Only falls and horses: accidents and injuries in racehorse training. Occup Med (Lond) 2012; 62:343-9. [PMID: 22764272 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqs068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The horseracing training industry has largely been ignored in terms of active occupational health research. AIMS To provide baseline statistics on the specific nature and type of accidents that occurred in English horseracing stables during 2008. METHODS All 716 training yards/stables registered with the British Horseracing Authority were contacted in April/May 2009 to complete the Racing Injury Accident Statistical Survey. The survey asked respondents to detail all recorded accidents and injuries during 2008. RESULTS Two hundred and fifty-six yards (36%) provided usable responses. The proportion of different-sized yards was highly comparable with the sizes of yards in the national population. Employees per yard ranged from 1 to 121 (mean = 9 ± 14), with a total of 2293 employees (30% of the total 7558 UK yard staff). At the point of survey, participating yards housed between 0 and 243 horses (mean = 6 ± 32), with 6420 horses covered in this survey. One hundred and thirty yards (51%) reported no accidents. Of the remaining 126 yards, 665 accidents were reported, ranging from 1 to 58 accidents per establishment, equalling 5 accidents per yard (± 7) or 3 accidents per yard for the entire sample. There was a mean of 53 horse-related accidents per month, and 96% were horse-related. Medical treatment was required for 50% of accidents. CONCLUSIONS This representative sample covers the broad range of hazards, accidents and injuries in this difficult-to-access but unique industry. Recommendations for the management of accidents are made.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Filby
- Racing Welfare, Robin McAlpine House, 20b Park Lane, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 8QD, UK
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Smartt P, Chalmers D. A new look at horse-related sport and recreational injury in New Zealand. J Sci Med Sport 2009; 12:376-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2008.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2008] [Accepted: 04/15/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Hitchens PL, Blizzard CL, Jones G, Day LM, Fell J. The incidence of race-day jockey falls in Australia, 2002-2006. Med J Aust 2009; 190:83-6. [PMID: 19236295 DOI: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2009.tb02284.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2008] [Accepted: 08/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe rates of occurrence of falls, injuries and fatalities to horse-racing jockeys in Australia. DESIGN AND SETTING Retrospective analysis of data on race-day falls from stewards' reports provided by the Principal Racing Authority of each state and territory of Australia, August 2002 - July 2006. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Fall, injury and fatality incidence rates; comparison with overseas rates. RESULTS There were 3360 jockey falls from 748 367 rides. Falls occurred at a rate of 0.42 per 100 rides in flat races and 5.26 per 100 rides in jumps races. In flat racing, 54.6% (1694/3101) of falls occurred before the start of the race and 11.1% (344/3101) of falls occurred post-race. The 34.3% (1063/3101) of falls that occurred during flat races resulted in 61.7% (516/836) of the injuries sustained. In jumps racing, most falls occurred at a jump and 9.7% (25/259) of jockeys who fell were transported to hospital and/or declared unfit to ride. There were five fatalities resulting from falls during the study period, all in flat racing. Fall and injury rates were comparable with those found in the United Kingdom, Ireland, France and Japan. CONCLUSIONS Being a jockey carries a substantial risk of injury and death. Although rates of injury in Australia are not exceptional by international standards, there can be improvement to safety standards in the Australian racing industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peta L Hitchens
- Menzies Research Institute, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
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