Injuries in Professional Rodeo: An Update.

In brief: A medical team kept records for four years on all injuries that occurred during an annual state championship rodeo. Fifty-five (19.7%) of the 278 competitors and rodeo clowns who participated sustained a total of 61 injuries. Bull riding was the most dangerous event, accounting for 20 injuries to 18 competitors; saddle bronc riding and bareback riding followed with 13 injuries each. Barrel racing was the safest, with no injuries. The most common injuries were contusions, sprains, and strains, and the elbow was injured more often than any other part of the body. Protective equipment and physical conditioning could reduce rodeo injuries.