We do not have the answer to why face injuries have decreased more than head injuries. These same increase is seen in the total number of injuries as well as in head injuries. If there has been increased use of protective vests in 1999, these figures do not show any decrease that might have been the result of this use. The horse community beginning this year has an ASTM standard vest. Previously, the body protectors were industry certified, varied in the padding, the area of body covered, and claims for protection.
Concussion is a far sixth, following internal injuries.
Many concussions never arrive at the emergency room, and if the concussion is mild and associated with other injury, such as fracture, laceration or internal injury, the concussion may never be entered on the discharge diagnosis. The total number of fractures had the lowest figure in 1997 and the highest figure in 1999. The same trend is also showing in the United States Pony Club accident study. Fractures of the upper trunk would include rib, clavicle, shoulder and thoracic spine. These fractures have the lowest figure in 1997, but have increased in the last two years.