[Horse riding as a form of recreation and professional sport taking into account the spine mobility of riders – a preliminary results].

This research study investigates the impact of horse riding, done professionally or for recreation, on the mobility of the spine and prevalence of back pain in riders. It found a significant difference in the spine mobility between professional and recreational riders, with professionals often experiencing limitations in spinal range of motion and back pain.

Objective of the Study

• The study aimed to examine the effects of systematic horse riding training on two aspects: the global mobility of the riders’ spine and the prevalence of back pain amongst professional and recreational horse riders.

Methods

• In the study, 70 horse riders were included and further divided into two groups: Professional horse riders (71.4%), and those who undertake horse riding for recreation (28.6%).
• Functional tests were performed to assess the range of motion in the riders’ spine.
• An original survey was used to gather data about the intensity of exercise and the occurrence of pain complaints.

Results

• A statistically significant difference was found in the global spine mobility measurements between professional and recreational riders, with professionals showing more limited spine mobility. This was evaluated from the functional tests carried out.
• The study also reported that back pain was experienced by about 20% of professional horse riders and 25% of recreational horse riders during training, suggesting this pain was dependent on spine mobility.

Conclusions

• The findings showed that professional horse riders often have a limitation in the global mobility of their spines, compared to people who enjoy horse riding recreationally.
• In both groups, the occurrence of back pain was common. This suggests that both recreational and professional horse riding can impact a rider’s spinal health, indicating a need for further studies and preventive measures.