The 8 Most Common Ways You Can Be Hurt By a Horse

Getting knocked over by a horse is possible while it is loose, tied or being led. The more you work around a horse, the less likely this becomes, as you learn to anticipate what your horse is thinking and will do next. Getting knocked over can lead to sprains, bruises, and broken bones and teeth.  

Strains and Sprains

When you first learn to ride you will be waking up a few sore muscles, some of which aren't really used in other sports or activities. Many people will feel soreness in the muscles along the inside of their upper thigh. Others may feel their calf muscles, either along the outside or at the back, tired after a ride. Backaches are common and can indicate a poorly fitting saddle, or poor riding position. Shoulders can also become tight. The good news is, as you strengthen and stretch these muscles, and learn to ride better, most of these pains will go away.

However, there are other strains that can happen by accident. A lot of things can happen as you fall including, straining or spraining joints and muscles either on the way down or as you land. If your horse suddenly spooks as you are leading it, your arm or shoulder muscles may get pulled. Sudden overexertion—such as lifting your saddle, a bale of hay or carting a load of manure incorrectly, can also cause muscle strain. 

Being Dragged

Being dragged from the ground, or getting dragged after a fall can result in injury. Even a relatively small pony can drag an adult around, causing muscle strain and abrasions if you lose your footing. Of course, whether you're dragged while handling or hung up in the tack, there is a danger of being kicked while you're down there. Getting caught in the stirrups can lead to very severe injuries if the horse spooks, runs and kicks. Thankfully, being dragged can be largely avoided by learning to lead a horse properly and using safety stirrups and proper footwear.

Riding Into Obstacles

Trail riding often means you encounter low branches that can scratch, stab you and even sweep you off the saddle. In an arena, it's possible to be taken through low doors, or bump into walls or obstacles like jumps or barrels.