Computer methods in biomechanics and biomedical engineering
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Comput Methods Biomech Biomed Engin · Dec 2011
Finite element modelling of equestrian helmet impacts exposes the need to address rotational kinematics in future helmet designs.
Jockey head injuries, especially concussions, are common in horse racing. Current helmets do help to reduce the severity and incidences of head injury, but the high concussion incidence rates suggest that there may be scope to improve the performance of equestrian helmets. ⋯ Brain injury-related values (stress and strain) from the UCDBTM showed that a performance improvement based on linear acceleration does not imply the same improvement in head injury-related brain tissue loads. It is recommended that angular kinematics be considered in future equestrian helmet standards, as angular acceleration was seen to correlate with stress and strain in the brain.