Research on Traumatic Injuries to Polo Players

Before discussing polo injuries, it's important to understand the basic rules of the game and how to ride safely. Never push yourself beyond your comfort or skill level. Developing confidence on horseback takes time, and so does learning to ride at higher speeds safely. Don't feel pressured to ride faster, play harder, or stay on the field longer than you're ready for. Progress at your own pace, and focus on building good riding habits and proper technique.

Many polo injuries can be prevented by using the right protective equipment and making smart decisions during play. In one study of 236 polo-related injuries reported at English polo clubs, injuries to the limbs were the most common, followed by injuries to the face and head. This highlights the importance of always wearing a properly fitted, certified polo helmet.

Eye injuries were also a significant concern. A stray ball, an accidental swing of another player's mallet, or contact with a horse can all result in serious eye trauma. Wearing protective eyewear, such as impact-resistant sports goggles or a helmet with a face guard, can greatly reduce the risk of injury.

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Finally, remember that many injuries occur during falls or collisions. Riders instinctively reach out with an arm to break a fall, making wrist, hand, and shoulder injuries common. Likewise, mallets can become tangled or strike another player unexpectedly if riders get too close. Maintaining safe spacing, keeping control of your horse, and staying aware of the players around you will go a long way toward preventing injuries and making the game enjoyable for everyone.

Traumatic Injuries in Polo Players

• This retrospective cohort study analyzed 236 polo-related injuries reported at 26 English polo clubs between 2018 and 2024 to identify the most common injury locations and causes.
• Limb injuries were the most frequent (47.9%), followed by injuries to the face and head (38.6%). Eye injuries accounted for 12.1% of all reported injuries.
• Eye injuries were the leading cause of hospital treatment, exceeding injuries to the limbs and other head or facial regions. Injuries caused by the polo ball, mallet, and horse frequently resulted in serious eye trauma.
• Although mandatory helmets help reduce head injuries, the study found that current protective equipment does not adequately protect the eyes, leaving players vulnerable to severe vision-threatening injuries.
• The researchers recommend making protective eyewear, such as sports goggles or face guards, mandatory during polo matches to reduce the incidence and severity of eye injuries.

Ken-Dror, G., Chua, V., & Sharma, P. (2025). Traumatic injuries in polo players. Postgraduate Medical Journal. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1093/postmj/qgaf200