Traumatic injuries in polo players

Traumatic injury to the eyes while playing polo is the most common reason for requiring hospital treatment. As the head is already protected by mandating helmet use, we now advise similar regulation for eye protection by directing the wearing of sports glasses, goggles, or face guards. Key messages What is already known on this topic: Polo is regarded as a high-risk sport, which may result in traumatic injuries, the most serious affecting the head. Wearing of helmets is required during play to reduce this risk. What this study adds: Traumatic eye injuries during play are common and sustained from either the stick, ball, or fall from the horse. While the head is reasonably protected with helmets, injuries to the eyes while playing polo are the most common reason for requiring hospital treatment. How this study might affect research, practice or policy: As helmets are already mandated while playing polo, we now advocate the compulsory use of eye protection (sports glasses, goggles or face guards) for all polo players.