Saddle Fit Research Articles

The Role of Equestrian Professionals in Saddle Fit for Horses and Riders in the United Kingdom.

The horse owner and the multi-disciplinary team (MDT) are responsible for safeguarding horse welfare by ensuring the equipment being used is correctly fitted. The aim of this study was to investigate how saddle fit is assessed, managed, and acted upon by equestrian professionals. Participants (n = 483) completed an online questionnaire, which was split into three major sections: (1) participant demographics; (2) saddle fit for the horse; and (3) saddle fit for the rider. Descriptive statistics, Kruskal-Wallis, and univariable and multivariable analyses were performed (p < 0.05). Inductive content analysis identified themes from open-question responses. From the UK responses (n = 377), 184 saddle fitters, 77 therapists, and 116 coaches completed the survey. Compared to coaches, saddle fitters and therapists asked more frequently when their clients last had their saddle fitted (p = 0.0004). Saddle fitters typically assessed the saddle statically and dynamically vs. therapists, where it was dependent on the circumstances of the assessment (p = 0.0004). Saddle fitters experienced the saddle being out of balance more than therapists (p = 0.032) and made more alterations to the saddle than therapists and coaches (p = 0.0004). This study highlights opportunities for professions within the MDT to better support each other and horseowners to achieve improvements in overall fit for horses and riders.

Shape change in the saddle region of the equine back during trot and walk.

Equine back pain is prevalent among ridden horses and is often attributed to poor saddle fit. An alternative explanation is that saddle fits are technically good but fit to the wrong configuration. Saddles are fit for the standing horse, but much of the time ridden is instead spent locomoting when the back experiences the greatest peak forces. We used an array of cameras to reconstruct the surface of the back and its movement during trot, walk and standing for five horses. We verified the setup's accuracy by reconstructing a laser-scanned life-sized model horse. Our reconstructions demonstrate that saddles sit within a large, relatively low-mobile region of the back. However, saddles do sit adjacent to the highly mobile withers, which demands care in positioning and design around this important region. Critically, we identified that saddle curvature between standing and moving horses is substantially different, where trotting and walking horses have flatter backs than their standing configurations. Saddles designed around the locomoting configuration of horses may improve horse welfare by being better fit and decreasing the focal pressures applied by saddles.

Experiences of Interdisciplinary Working from the Perspective of the Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitters.

Horse owners seek the advice and support of a number of equestrian professionals in carrying out their duty of care for their animal. In some instances, these professionals form a multi-disciplinary team (MDT). The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of the Society of Master Saddlers' qualified saddle fitters (SMSQSFs) working with other professionals and to understand the nature of inter-disciplinary working from an SMSQSF perspective. Semi-structured, one-to-one online interviews with fourteen SMSQSFs were completed. Areas explored included the nature of the participant's client base; the frequency and nature of their interactions with other professionals; their perceptions of horse owner expectations of an MDT approach; and any benefits, challenges, and barriers to an MDT approach within an equestrian setting. Interviews were video and audio recorded (MS Teams), transcribed verbatim (Otter ai), and imported into qualitative data analysis software (NVivo, version 12). Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Six themes were identified: (1) effective communication; (2) multidisciplinary expectations; (3) horse welfare; (4) professionalism; (5) relationships; (6) working together. Communication was recognised as a crucial component of an effective MDT. Most participants valued and desired an MDT approach. They felt they had a key role to play within the equestrian MDT, not only in the prevention of deterioration in horse welfare but also in improving the functionality and performance of the horse-rider partnership. Effective MDT working was also seen as having benefits to SMSQSFs and other professional stakeholders alike, although time and financial constraints were identified as barriers to MTD working. The role of the horse owner within the MDT was unclear and potentially complex, and this and other factors such as the professional identity of the SMSQSF, personal relationships, and input from others outside of the MDT team were identified as challenges to effective MDT working. This present study found that SMSQSFs experience similar benefits and challenges to an MDT approach as seen in human healthcare settings. The role of the horse owner, communication, and professional recognition are indicated as pivotal to MDT effectiveness in achieving optimal saddle fit.

The Effects of Saddle Fit on Horse Behaviour: Insights from Infrared Thermography

Infrared thermography is a relatively new technology that can be used alongside behavioral observation to determine whether a horse is likely to be experiencing pain. It it particularly well-suited to examining the effect of ill-fitting tack, as it allows the thermographer to see exactly where some piece of tack might be causing distress. Here, infrared thermography is introduced and explored as an adjunct to more traditional tools like the ethogram.

111 Relationship among gullet size, body weight, and body condition score in stabled geldings

Saddle fit is likely influenced by body weight, body condition score, exercise routine and nutrition. Current recommendations are to adjust saddle fit at least twice a year. The objective of this study was to determine the amount of change in gullet size (GS), body weight (BW) and body condition score (BCS) at 2 riding stables with moderate-heavy working hunter/jumper horses. The data were collected from 12 geldings in the fall of 2021 and 2022 and spring of 2022. Demographic information, including age, breed, sex, exercise routine, and housing, were recorded. Estimates of BW were calculated using length and heart girth measurements. Two observers independently evaluated BCS by averaging 6 body regions. Gullet size was measured using a gullet gauge protractor (Easy-Change Gullet System, Saddlery Brands International, AUS) according to manufacturer's instructions. Gullet sizes were categorized as narrow (0), medium-narrow (1), medium (2), medium-wide (3), and wide (4). Results were tabulated in excel and analyzed using GraphPad Prism Software LLC. vs. 9.3.1.A 2-way ANOVA was used to evaluate the effects of season and horse on GS, BW and BCS, with the means separated using Tukey Multiple Comparison tests. Body weight and BCS did not differ (P > 0.05) among seasons, but BW and BCS did differ among horses (P < 0.001). Gullet size decreased by 1 size from spring of 2022 to fall of 2022 (P < 0.001) and tended to be lower by approximately 1/2 size from fall of 2021 to fall of 2022 (P = 0.06). However, no difference in GS was evident from fall of 2021 to spring of 2022 (P = 0.23). Differences in BW and BCS were too minimal to observe a seasonal effect in this group of horses. However, a decline in GS across seasons is evident and still likely attributed to these factors. For these reasons, the relationship among BW, BCS, and GS for horses at well-managed equestrian facilities warrants further investigation.

128 Gullet size can be predicted using wither body condition score in horses

Gullet size provides guidance about saddle fit for horses. However, no information exists evaluating the impact of body condition score (BCS), particularly wither region BCS, on gullet size. The objective was to develop a prediction equation for gullet size in moderate-heavy working adult horses based upon wither region BCS and gullet size. Body condition score and gullet size were evaluated fall of 2021 (n = 23 geldings, n = 1 mare), spring of 2021 (n = 25 geldings, n = 3 mares) and fall of 2022 (n = 25 geldings, n = 5 mares). Body condition score was determined by 2 observers. Gullet size was quantified using a gullet gauge protractor (Easy-Change Gullet System, Saddlery Brands International, AUS) over the wither region. Correlations between BCS, wither region BCS and gullet size were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficients, and the equation for estimating gullet size used a linear regression model.Gullet sizes were categorized as narrow (0), medium-narrow (1), medium (2), medium-wide (3), and wide (4). Gullet size and BCS was minimally correlated (r = 0.19, P = 0.09, n = 82), whereas gullet size and wither region BCS was moderately correlated (r = 0.44, P = 0.0001, n = 82). Gullet size was estimated using the equation 0.7x – 1.3 (R2 = 0.20; P < 0.01; n = 82), wherein x is the wither region BCS. The equation is most applicable to horses with wither region BCS between 4 and 6, and moderately to heavily exercised. Measurements of ultrasound fat depth, wither height, and shoulder width may provide further precision to the above equation. In summary, measurement of wither region BCS translated well to a determination of gullet size, and thus constitutes a potentially appropriate metric for saddle fit in horses.

Application of a Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram in Icelandic horses: A pilot study

SummaryBackgroundA disturbing number of ridden horses are lame, although assumed by riders to be pain free. A Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram (RHpE) was developed; an RHpE score of ≥8/24 is likely to indicate the presence of musculoskeletal pain. Pain assessment in Icelandic horses is challenging; the RHpE may facilitate lameness recognition.ObjectivesTo determine the repeatability of application of an adapted RHpE to Icelandic horses by a single observer. To evaluate the relationship between RHpE scores and lameness or abnormalities of canter.Study designProspective, cross‐sectional study.MethodsVideo‐recordings of 30 Icelandic horses performing a standardised test (walk, trot, tölt, canter) were acquired. The adapted RHpE, to include tölt, was applied to all recordings twice in random order by a single observer. Agreement was assessed using Cohen's kappa. The presence of lameness, abnormalities of canter and lameness grade was determined by an independent expert. The association between maximum lameness grade and RHpE score was tested using Spearman's rank correlation.ResultsAll horses exhibited both lameness, the majority in &gt;1 limb, and abnormalities of canter. The RHpE score was ≥8/24 in 96% (median 10/24 and 10.5/24, respectively, for the two assessments). There was substantial to near‐perfect agreement for the majority of behaviours (63.6%) and moderate or fair agreement for 32%. There was no correlation between maximum lameness grades and RHpE scores.Main limitationsThe absence of non‐lame horses with correct saddle fit for horse and rider.ConclusionsThere was good repeatability of application of the RHpE. Musculoskeletal pain was associated with RHpE scores of ≥8/24 in the majority of horses. Data acquired from non‐lame horses, ridden in well‐fitting tack by riders of appropriate size, are needed to determine if the threshold of step frequency in trot needs to be adjusted for more accurate application of the RHpE in Icelandic horses.

Multi-channel capacitive sensing system for cross bore detection and classification by machine learning

Cross bore is an intersection of an existing underground pipeline such as a sewer pipeline by a second utility such as a gas pipeline installed using the trenchless technique, which could lead to severe incidents like explosions. There are hundreds of thousands of existing cross bores in the U.S., at an estimated average rate of 0.4 per mile of pipeline reported by Cross Bore Safety Association, which is at high risk and a significant threat to public safety if not well detected, characterized, and mitigated. The research on high-accuracy nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods that can identify cross bore areas more effectively and efficiently under challenging field environment is of vital importance. This paper proposes a multi-channel capacitive sensing system for cross bores detection and classification, which passes through the gas pipe to inspect the dielectric property changes of surrounding materials and indicates the existence of cross bores. A 3-D simulation modeling tool was developed to optimize the footprint of multi-channel sensor, and the effect of four cross bore types on the received capacitance values was investigated. The lab-scale experiments were performed using the developed multi-channel capacitive sensing system through a soil box setup, and the experimental results indicated that the developed system can identify the four types of cross bores. To achieve an automated decision making for the cross bores detection and classification, machine learning (ML) algorithms were developed through the experimental dataset, and it was found that the subspace k-nearest neighbors (SKNN) performed better with a high classification accuracy. Finally, field test validation was performed at the pipe farm (Gas Technology Institute, IL, USA) and the superior capability of the developed sensing system in identifying cross bores as well as other key parts in gas pipelines including butt fusion and saddle fitting with coil was demonstrated.

Effects of saddle tilt and stirrup length on the kinetics of horseback riders.

How the modification of saddle fitting parameters in horse riding affects rider's kinetics is very uncertain. The aim of this study is to describe how manipulating the two main adjustments that an end-user is likely to perform (saddle tilt and stirrup length) affects the biomechanics of a horse rider on a living horse. Eleven showjumpers volunteered to take part in this study. Each participant performed a 120-strides standardization trial at trot and canter, with 0° saddle tilt and stirrup length that would position the rider's knee at 90°. Following the standardization trial, four interventions were performed, which consisted of 60 strides with 60 mm shorter stirrups, 60 mm longer stirrups, 4° forward tilted saddle and 4° backward tilted saddle. Stirrup and rein tension forces were measured with tension loadcells. A symmetry index was calculated. Acceleration was measured with inertial measuring units at the helmet and back of the rider and shock attenuation was calculated. Shortening the stirrups and adjusting saddle tilt significantly enhanced shock attenuation at canter and increased force on the stirrups at trot and canter (p<0.05). Lowering the stirrups reduced rein tension forces (p=0.01). At trot, adjusting saddle tilt and stirrup length enhanced symmetry index on the bit (p<0.05). These results allowed for general guidelines to be proposed, although individualization became an evident part of any saddle setup design due to a high inter-subject variability.

A Systematic Approach to Comparing Thermal Activity of the Thoracic Region and Saddle Pressure Distribution beneath the Saddle in a Group of Non-Lame Sports Horses.

Simple SummaryThermography is a non-invasive method for measuring surface temperatures. Due to its ease of use, it may be a convenient way of identifying hypo/hyperthermic areas under a saddle that may be related to saddle pressures. A thermal camera quantified temperatures at specific locations (left/right) of the thoracic region at three-time points; a Pliance (Novel) pressure mat determined the mean/peak saddle pressures (kPa) during a period of exercise. Differences between saddle widths in the cranial/caudal mean and peak saddle pressures were found. The maximum thermal temperatures increased post lunge and post ridden compared to the baseline. No difference between post lunge and post ridden exercise were found. The thermal activity does not appear to be representative of increased saddle pressure values. The sole use of thermal imaging for saddle fitting should be applied with caution.Thermography is a non-invasive method for measuring surface temperatures and may be a convenient way of identifying hypo/hyperthermic areas under a saddle that may be related to saddle pressures. A thermal camera quantified minimum/maximum/mean temperatures at specific locations (left/right) of the thoracic region at three-time points: (1) baseline; (2) post lunging; (3) post ridden exercise in eight non-lame sports horses ridden by the same rider. A Pliance (Novel) pressure mat determined the mean/peak saddle pressures (kPa) in the cranial and caudal regions. General linear mixed models with the horse as the random factor investigated the time point (fixed factor: baseline; lunge; ridden) and saddle fit (fixed factor: correct; wide; narrow) on thermal parameters with Bonferroni post hoc comparison. The saddle pressure data (grouped: saddle width) were assessed with an ANOVA and Tukey post hoc comparison (p ≤ 0.05). Differences between the saddle widths in the cranial/caudal mean (p = 0.05) and peak saddle pressures (p = 0.01) were found. The maximum temperatures increased post lunge (p ≤ 0.0001) and post ridden (p ≤ 0.0001) compared to the baseline. No difference between post lunge and post ridden exercise (all p ≥ 0.51) was found. The thermal activity does not appear to be representative of increased saddle pressure values. The sole use of thermal imaging for saddle fitting should be applied with caution.

The recognition of pain and learned behaviour in horses which buck

SummaryBucking behaviour in horses is potentially dangerous to riders. There is limited information about how bucking behaviour should be investigated by veterinarians. The objectives of this article are to define bucking behaviour, to review the literature relating to bucking and allied behaviours in horses and describe personal observations and to describe an approach to clinical investigation and management strategies. A literature review from 2000 to 2020 was performed via search engines and additional free searches. A buck is an upward leap, usually in addition to forward propulsion, when either both hindlimbs or all four limbs are off the ground with the thoracolumbosacral region raised. Bucking often occurs as a series of such leaps and different manifestations include ‘pronking’, ‘bronking’ and ‘fly bucking’. Causes include excitement, exuberance, defensive behaviour associated with fear, learned behaviour through negative reinforcement or a reaction to musculoskeletal pain. Specific causes of pain include an ill‐fitting saddle or girth, thoracolumbar pain, girth region pain, sternal or rib injury, neuropathic pain, sacroiliac joint region pain, referred pain and primary hindlimb lameness. Any of these may be compounded by a rider who is fearful, poorly balanced or crooked. Determination of the underlying cause requires a comprehensive clinical assessment, including assessment of saddle fit for horse and rider and suitability of the horse–rider combination. In some horses, identification of a primary source of pain allows targeted treatment and resolution of pain, but careful retraining is crucial. An understanding of learning behaviour is required for successful rehabilitation. It was concluded that identification of the cause of bucking may enable treatment of primary pain which, when combined with retraining, results in management of bucking behaviour. However, in a minority of horses, dangerous bucking behaviour cannot be reliably resolved, requiring retirement or euthanasia of the horse.

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

Ill-fitting saddles can impair the well-being and performance of horses. Saddle fit is generally assessed subjectively by a trained professional or with an electronic saddle pressure mat, but little is known about the agreement between both methods. The study aims were (1) to assess the prevalence of saddle fit issues in a riding sound Swiss horse population, (2) to investigate how well the subjective assessment correlates with objectively measured pressure magnitude and distribution under the saddle during riding, and (3) how well both correlate with back pain of the horse. Only 10% of the saddles were free of the assessed problems. Pressures exceeded clinically relevant thresholds in 15% of the horses. There was no clear correlation between back pain and pressure magnitude, but back pain was associated with certain subjectively assessed fit problems. Statistically significant associations between fit problems and the expected pressure patterns were found for panel angles, curvature of the saddle, width of the panel channel, and the waist of the saddle. There was no or limited association of pressure patterns with the balance of the saddle, width and angle of the tree head, or the symmetry of the panels. The results revealed that certain fit problems were reflected in the electronically measured pressure distribution and that the subjective assessment can therefore provide relevant information. Pressure magnitude showed only limited association with back pain, which indicates that there are other factors involved in the development of back problems in horses.

Gait abnormalities and ridden horse behaviour in a convenience sample of the United Kingdom ridden sports horse and leisure horse population

SummaryThe objectives of this study were to compare horses’ gaits in hand and when ridden; to assess static and dynamic saddle fit for each horse and rider; to apply the Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram (RHpE) and relate the findings to gait abnormalities consistent with musculoskeletal pain, rider position and balance and saddle fit; and to document noseband use and its relationship with mouth opening during ridden exercise. Data were acquired prospectively from a convenience sample of horses believed by their owners to be working comfortably. All assessments were subjective. Gait in hand and when ridden were evaluated independently, by two assessors, and compared using McNemar’s test. Static tack fit and noseband type were recorded. Movement of the saddle during ridden exercise, rider position, balance and size relative to the saddle was documented. RHpE scores were based on assessment of video recordings. Multivariable Poisson regression analysis was used to determine factors which influenced the RHpE scores. Of 148 horses, 28.4% were lame in hand, whereas 62.2% were lame ridden (P&lt;0.001). Sixty per cent of horses showed gait abnormalities in canter. The median RHpE score was 8/24 (interquartile range 5, 9; range 0, 15). There was a positive association between lameness and the RHpE score (P&lt;0.001). Riding School horses had higher RHpE scores compared with General Purpose horses (P = 0.001). Saddles with tight tree points (P = 0.001) and riders seated at the back of the saddle rather than the middle (P = 0.001) were associated with higher RHpE scores. Horses wearing crank cavesson compared with cavesson nosebands had higher RHpE scores (P = 0.006). There was no difference in mouth opening, as defined by the RHpE, in horses with a noseband with the potential to restrict mouth opening, compared with a correctly fitted cavesson noseband, or no noseband. It was concluded that lameness or gait abnormalities in canter may be missed unless horses are assessed ridden.

Effect of a Half Pad on Pressure Distribution in Sitting Trot and Canter Beneath a Saddle Fitted to Industry Guidelines

Using a half pad beneath a saddle can be beneficial for improving saddle fit. However, there is a paucity of evidence on half pad use when used beneath a correctly fitted saddle. The aim was to quantify the effect that three different half pads have on pressure distribution beneath a saddle fitted following industry guidelines. Twelve nonlame horses were ridden by experienced riders in sitting trot and canter on each rein (three repeats). Saddle fit, with a high-withered cotton saddle cloth (control) compared with three half pads (viscoelastic gel, wool, and medical-grade, closed-cell foam), was evaluated by five qualified saddle fitters. A Pliance (Novel) pressure mat determined saddle pressures. Mean and peak pressures (kPa) beneath the saddle were compared using a general linear mixed model with horse as a random factor and half pad type and rein as fixed factors with a Bonferroni post hoc correction (P ≤ .05). In sitting trot, in the cranial region, peak (P = .008) and mean pressures (P = .03) were highest when using the gel half pad compared with the control. In the caudal region in sitting trot, mean pressures were lowest when using the wool half pad (P = .0002). In canter, increased peak (P = .04) and mean (P = .02) pressures were found in the cranial region of the saddle with the gel half pad. In canter, with the foam half pad, reduced mean pressure (P = .002) in the caudal region was found. It is essential that the use and type of a half pad, to be used beneath a well-fitted saddle, is discussed with a qualified saddle fitter.

Application of a Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram and Its Relationship with Gait in a Convenience Sample of 60 Riding Horses.

Simple SummaryHorse owners are poor at recognising lameness which may compromise equine welfare. A Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram, comprising 24 behaviours with specific definitions, was developed to facilitate identification of musculoskeletal pain. Previous studies demonstrated that the presence of ≥8/24 behaviours is likely to reflect musculoskeletal pain. The aim of this study was to further test the Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram by applying it to a convenience sample (n = 60) of sports horses and riding school horses in regular work and assumed by their owners to be working comfortably. All horses performed a purpose-designed dressage-type test of 8.5 min duration in walk, trot and canter, with their normal rider. The presence of increased back muscle tension or pain, poor saddle fit, gait abnormalities and rider skill were assessed by independent experts. The Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram was applied retrospectively, by a trained analyst, to video recordings which had been acquired in a standardised fashion. There was a significant association between the Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram score and lameness. Lame horses had higher scores than non-lame horses. Education of riders about behaviours which may reflect pain in ridden horses could allow the earlier identification of lame horses, whose welfare may be improved by accurate diagnosis and treatment.A Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram (RHpE) comprising 24 behaviours has been developed to facilitate the identification of musculoskeletal pain. The aim was to further test the RHpE by its application to a convenience sample (n = 60) of sports horses and riding school horses in regular work and assumed by their owners to be working comfortably. All horses performed a purpose-designed dressage-type test of 8.5 min duration in walk, trot and canter, with their normal rider. The RHpE was applied retrospectively to video recordings acquired in a standardised fashion. Seventy-three percent of horses were lame (≤ grade 2/8) on one or more limbs; 47% had gait abnormalities in canter. Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram scores ranged from 3 to 16/24 (median 9); rider skill score ranged from 2.5 to 8/10 (median 4.75). The effect of horse age, breed, sex, work-discipline, epaxial muscle hypertonicity or pain, an ill-fitting saddle, rider skill score, the presence of lameness or gait abnormalities in canter on the RHpE score was assessed using Poisson regression. Two variables were retained in the final multivariable analysis, rider skill score as a continuous variable (p < 0.001), and lameness (p = 0.008). A RHpE score ≥8 was a good indicator of the presence of musculoskeletal pain.

Husbandry, Use, and Orthopedic Health of Horses Owned by Competitive and Leisure Riders in Switzerland

The use of horses in competitive sports receives increasing criticism from the public, mainly due to the potential for injury. However, it is unclear if orthopedic and other health issues are more common in competition horses than those in leisure horses. The aim of this study was to assess husbandry, use, and orthopedic health in Swiss riding horses and to compare these aspects between horses owned by self-identified competitive riders (CR) and leisure riders (LR) in Switzerland. A total of 237 owners completed an online survey providing information on their athletic ambitions, their horse’s husbandry, health, training, and tack. Two experienced veterinarians assessed gait irregularities, muscular development, and back pain in the horses and evaluated saddle fit. Compared with horses owned by competitive riders (CH), a higher proportion of horses kept by leisure riders (LH) were kept unshod, under more natural conditions, and turned out with other horses. LH were exercised less frequently, and LR trained less frequently with instructors. CR reported less time since the last saddle check and the use of more training aids during riding. No differences between the two groups could be found in orthopedic health, muscular development, or back pain, but LH had higher body condition scores and a slightly higher proportion of saddles with at least one fit problem. Our data revealed no increased prevalence of the assessed health problems in competition horses compared with leisure horses in Switzerland. However, suboptimal saddle fit and muscular development, back pain, and gait irregularity are frequent in both groups and deserve more attention.

Colic Surgery in Horses: A Retrospective Study Into Short- and Long-Term Survival Rate, Complications and Rehabilitation toward Sporting Activity

Colic surgery in horses impacts both short-term well-being of horses due to possible surgical and anesthetic complications and also long-term return to a sporting career. In this retrospective study, survival and complication rates, as well as functional outcome and behavioral problems in horses that underwent colic surgery were studied. Data from 283 horses that underwent colic surgery at a veterinary teaching hospital were analyzed. Furthermore, owners were contacted and requested to fill out a questionnaire concerning the first year of rehabilitation. Of 283 horses that underwent colic surgery, 167 (59%) were discharged home. After discharge from hospital, 34 horses (12%) were lost to follow-up. Of the remaining 133 horses, 128 were still alive after 1 year (96.2%), while 5 horses were euthanized due to recurrent colic. Of the horses that did not survive the hospitalization period 73 horses (25.8%) were euthanized intraoperatively and 36 horses (12.7%) during intensive care unit (ICU) stay. Survival of horses entering the ICU up to discharge from hospital was 79.5%. During rehabilitation, 49 horses (59.8%) that returned home experienced one or more recurrences of colic. Fifty-two horses (63.4%) that returned home reached at least preoperative level of performance. Altered behavior and gait-related problems during specific elements of riding (for instance during collecting, lateral bending, etc.) were reported in up to 46.2% of horses. Improving veterinary aftercare in collaboration with other disciplines (e.g., physiotherapy and saddle fitting) during rehabilitation could be a means to further improve athletic performance and welfare after recovery from colic surgery.

Investigation into thoracic asymmetry in ridden horses

Progressive training of horses focusses on the muscular development and flexibility to both the right and the left. However anecdotal evidence suggests that horses are not symmetrically structured through the thoracic region and this may have effects on saddle fitting and performance. The aim of this research was to determine if asymmetry exists in the thoracic musculoskeletal structure of ridden horses by analysing retrospective data of saddle fits (n=490) obtained from a saddle fitting company. A flexible wither tracer tool was used to obtain tracings of wither shape. Each tracing yielded four repeatable points (two on the left; two on the right) measured from the midline at the highest and lowest points of the withers. Descriptive assessments of shoulder, wither, and back shape, and demographic information on both horse and rider were recorded. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test compared the means of the wither shape measurements. A GLIMMIX procedure identified relationships between the wither measurements, descriptive assessments, and horse and rider demographics. The means of measurements from the wither tracer tool showed almost 60% of horses having larger measurements on the left side (P&lt;0.0001). There was no effect of horse breed, age, sex, height or level of training on wither measurements (P&gt;0.05). Rider age, gender, height, weight and level of training did not affect wither measurements (P&gt;0.05). These results show that horses are asymmetric in their thoracic structure with a majority of horses larger on their left side than the right. This asymmetry may be due to genetics, environment or training and should be considered when fitting a saddle to the horse.

The Effect of Tree Width on Thoracolumbar and Limb Kinematics, Saddle Pressure Distribution, and Thoracolumbar Dimensions in Sports Horses in Trot and Canter.

This study evaluated the effect of saddle tree width on thoracolumbar and limb kinematics, saddle pressure distribution, and thoracolumbar epaxial musculature dimensions. Correctly fitted saddles were fitted by a Society of Master Saddler Qualified Saddle Fitter in fourteen sports horses (mean ± SD age 12 ± 8.77 years, height 1.65 ± 0.94 m), and were altered to one width fitting wider and narrower. Horses were equipped with skin markers, inertial measurement units, and a pressure mat beneath the saddle. Differences in saddle pressure distribution, as well as limb and thoracolumbosacral kinematics between saddle widths were investigated using a general linear model with Bonferroni adjusted alpha (p ≤ 0.05). Compared with the correct saddle width, in trot, in the wide saddle, an 8.5% increase in peak pressures was found in the cranial region of the saddle (p = 0.003), a 14% reduction in thoracolumbar dimensions at T13 (p = 0.02), and a 6% decrease in the T13 range of motion in the mediolateral direction (p = 0.02). In the narrow saddle, a 14% increase in peak pressures was found in the caudal region of the saddle (p = 0.01), an 8% decrease in the range of motion of T13 in the mediolateral direction (p = 0.004), and a 6% decrease in the vertical direction (p = 0.004) of T13. Compared with the correct saddle width, in canter, in the wide saddle, axial rotation decreased by 1% at T5 (p = 0.03) with an 5% increase at T13 (p = 0.04) and a 5% increase at L3 (p = 0.03). Peak pressures increased by 4% (p = 0.002) in the cranial region of the wide saddle. Altering the saddle fit had an effect on thoracolumbar kinematics and saddle pressure distribution; hence, correct saddle fit is essential to provide unhindered locomotion.

Could Pressure Distribution Under Race-Exercise Saddles Affect Limb Kinematics and Lumbosacral Flexion in the Galloping Racehorse?

Back pain is frequently recognized in racehorses, but saddle fit and design are rarely assessed. In sport horses, relationships between horse-saddle interaction, back pain, and altered kinematics are established, but few studies investigating horse-saddle interaction in racehorses exist. We hypothesized that reducing pressures under saddles at thoracic (T) vertebrae 10-13 in galloping racehorses is associated with improved limb and lumbosacral kinematics. The objectives of the study were to (1) determine pressure magnitude/distribution under 3 frequently used race-exercise saddles and a saddle designed to reduce peak pressures at T10-13 on racehorses at gallop and (2) compare limb and lumbosacral kinematics at gallop between 4 saddle types. Four Thoroughbred racehorses were galloped overground at standardized speed wearing half-tree, three-quarter–tree, full-tree race-exercise saddles (saddles H/Q/T), and a saddle designed to reduce paraspinal pressure at T10-13 (saddle F), in a cross-over design. Pressure distribution under saddles was recorded using a pressure-mat system and gait features using high-speed motion capture. Results were compared between saddle types within horses. Maximum peak pressures at T10-13 occurred at trailing forelimb vertical, but pressure distribution varied significantly between saddle types. Peak pressures, femur angle to vertical, and hip-flexion angle were significantly different between saddle types (P ≤ .0001–.02). Saddle F had significantly lower peak pressures at T10-13, greater hip flexion, femur angle to vertical, and forelimb and hindlimb protraction than saddles H, Q, and T. These findings suggest the femur has greater protraction in saddles with lower pressures at T10-13, indicating the importance of race-exercise saddle design. Saddles with lower pressures at T10-13 could potentially allow increased range of spinal motion and altered muscle use, supporting improved hindlimb function.