711 MEP166 – Does equestrian helmet type have an effect on head injury? A study on equestrian helmet use among collegiate athletes

AbstractBackground Risk of head injury associated with equestrian sports is high, with epidemiological studies reporting a comparable risk of severe head injury similar to those seen in off-road vehicular sports. Laboratory research has reported differences in helmet performance, but associated clinical relevance is unknown. Objective To characterize helmet use, head injury risk and to examine factors which influence these variables.Design Cross-sectional survey study.Setting Collegiate level equestrians within the United States.Participants A survey was administered via email to members of the National Collegiate Equestrian Association and the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association.Assessment of Risk Factors We collected data on head injury, type of helmet/liner, experience and falls.Main Outcome Measurements Head injury was similar across helmet brands and helmet liner types.Results Over 50% of participants reported falling off a horse in the last year (n = 207, 58%). Head injury occurred with high frequency (n = 37, 18% of falls). Concussion was the most frequently reported type of head injury (n = 30, 81%). Over half of athletes with self-reported concussion denied receiving medical treatment (n = 18, 60%) As a primary variable of interest, the reported head injury incidence was similar across helmet brands, as well as between helmets with Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) and those without. See table 1. A secondary variable of interest, riders with the most experience were less likely to sustain a head injury than those with less experience (6.7%, vs 12.3%). See table 2.Disturbingly, 78% of equestrians said that they would not replace their helmet after every fall. ConclusionsCollegiate equestrians do not adhere to recommendations for replacing helmets Fall-related head injury risk among collegiate equestrians is highNeither helmet brand nor helmet liner type were associated with lower rate of reported head injury View this table:View inline View popup Abstract 711 Table 1 Correlation between the presence of MIPS technology in helmets with the reported rate of head injuries while riding and the frequency of helmets useView this table:View inline View popup Abstract 711 Table 2 Correlation between years of riding experience with the reported rate of head injuries while riding and the frequency of helmets use