“Feel the Force”-Prevalence of Subjectively Assessed Saddle Fit Problems in Swiss Riding Horses and Their Association With Saddle Pressure Measurements and Back Pain.

This research article investigates the occurrence of saddle fit problems in Swiss riding horses, how these problems correlate with objectively measured saddle pressure, and its association with horse back pain. The findings highlight significant saddle fit problems that are reflected in electronically measured pressure distribution during riding and their link to horses’ back pain.

Objectives of the Research

• The study had three main objectives. First, to evaluate how prevalent saddle fit problems were amongst a healthy population of Swiss riding horses. Second, to find out if there was a connection between saddle fit problems identified subjectively by a professional and the measured pressure distribution under the saddle while riding. Lastly, to check the correlation between saddle fit problems, pressure measurements and the back pain in horses.

Key Findings

• The study discovered that 90% of the saddles used on the horses investigated had fit problems in some form. Furthermore, a worrying 15% of the horses were subjected to pressures that surpassed clinically relevant thresholds.
• Interestingly, the study found no clear correlation between the intensity of back pain and the magnitude of saddle pressure. However, it did find that horses with back pain were likely to have saddles with certain identified fit problems.
• The study found statistically significant connections between the anticipated pressure patterns and specific fit problems. These include panel angles, curvature of the saddle, width of the panel channel, and the waist of the saddle.

Implications of Findings

• The study’s findings indicate that certain saddle fit problems can be detected by the pressure distribution measured electronically. Thus, subjective assessment by a professional can provide relevant and useful information for the well-being of the horse and the effectiveness of the ride.
• Yet, the research also found that pressure magnitude did not appear to have a serious connection with back pain, suggesting that other factors might be involved in the development of back problems in horses.

Conclusion

• In conclusion, the research found that saddle fit problems are quite prevalent amongst a population of Swiss riding horses and that these problems correspond to specific patterns of pressure distribution. However, there was no clear relationship between the amount of saddle pressure experienced by the horse and the severity of back pain, suggesting that other factors may also be involved in causing back pain in horses.