“Concussion is something we just don’t take seriously enough in equine sport" says Laura Collett
The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has released unified concussion guidelines for use within the equestrian industry to help participants recognise the symptoms of concussion and know what actions to take, both in the immediate aftermath and during recovery.
Around the world, there is growing concern regarding the number of sport-related concussion injuries and potential health outcomes for athletes. Concussion is also not just a problem for full time professional athletes but can affect those of all ages and participating at all levels of sport. It can manifest itself in a variety of ways; the signs and symptoms will differ from person to person, may be physical, cognitive or behavioural, and can take hours or sometimes days to appear.
The six-page guidance document guidelines have been produced by BEF in response to the action plan published by the UK Government in December 2021 to address concussion in sport to help reduce risks and potential long-term effects associated with head injuries, following a Select Committee report.
“Concussion in sport has hit the headlines in recent times and we’re increasingly aware of the devastating, lasting impact it can have” says BEF Chief Executive Jim Eyre “As highlighted in the Government action plan, all who regulate and work in sport have a collective duty to come together to safeguard the health of our participants. As such, I’m delighted we’ve produced this guidance, which is as relevant to those in elite equestrian sport as it those interacting with horses for the first time."
Aimed at participants at all levels of equestrian sport – including riders, vaulters and drivers, parents, coaches, officials, grooms, medical personnel and event organisers – the guidance document provides information to manage concussion, from the time of injury through to a safe return to equestrian sport.
This includes the stages of recovery following concussion and a standardised ‘return to riding’ programme, both which should be carried out in conjunction with advice from a qualified medical practitioner or healthcare provider. Links to further help and resources are also listed.
In parallel with British Equestrian’s guidelines, the Department of Culture, Media and Sport and the Sport & Recreation Alliance have been key to coordinating the generic UK Concussion Guidelines for Grassroots Sport, due to be launched this spring. British Equestrian has been involved in the development steps, which ensures consistent concussion messaging across all sports, including ‘if in doubt, sit them out’ and the ‘four Rs’ principle of recognise, remove, recover and return.
Olympic eventing team gold medallist and World Class Programme rider Laura Collett has added her backing to the concussion initiatives, saying that “Concussion is something we just don’t take seriously enough in equine sport. We wouldn’t think twice if it was a welfare issue with our horses, so why should we risk our own health and wellbeing?
A campaign to raise awareness of concussion, along with clear advice to help recognise the signs – and most importantly not letting someone continue – is really welcome. Having experienced major brain trauma and concussion first-hand, I’d urge everyone to take the time and read the guidance, educate themselves and use the resources provided. We all have a part to play, however you enjoy horses.”
Download the BEF Six-Page Guidance Document here
