Evaluation of pressure distribution under an English saddle at walk, trot and canter

Abstract

Summary Reasons for performing study: Basic information about the influence of a rider on the equine back is currently lacking. Hypothesis: That pressure distribution under a saddle is different between the walk, trot and canter. Methods: Twelve horses without clinical signs of back pain were ridden. At least 6 motion cycles at walk, trot and canter were measured kinematically. Using a saddle pad, the pressure distribution was recorded. The maximum overall force (MOF) and centre of pressure (COP) were calculated. The range of back movement was determined from a marker placed on the withers. Results: MOF and COP showed a consistent time pattern in each gait. MOF was 12.1 ± 1.2 and 24.3 ± 4.6 N/kg at walk and trot, respectively, in the ridden horse. In the unridden horse MOF was 172.7 ± 11.8 N (walk) and 302.4 ± 33.9 N (trot). At ridden canter, MOF was 27.2 ± 4.4 N/kg. The range of motion of the back of the ridden horse was significantly lower compared to the unridden, saddled horse. Conclusions and potential relevance: Analyses may help quantitative and objective evaluation of the interaction between rider and horse as mediated through the saddle. The information presented is therefore of importance to riders, saddlers and equine clinicians. With the technique used in this study, style, skill and training level of different riders can be quantified, which would give the opportunity to detect potentially harmful influences and create opportunities for improvement.

An assessment of the pressure distribution exerted by a rider on the back of a horse during hippotherapy

“…By evaluating the magnitude and distribution of the forces and the COP trajectory, the effects of the rider on the equine back can be assessed (Fruehwirth et al, 2004). Several previous studies have investigated the force transmission under the saddle (Harman, 1994;Jeffcott, Holmes, & Townsend, 1999;Meschan et al, 2007).…”

“…The total force (pressure) transmitted via the pad is closely correlated to the rider's body weight (de Cocq et al, 2006;Fruehwirth et al, 2004).…”

“…Analyses of the COP distributions revealed how the rider exerts a stabilizing effect on the load of the back (Fruehwirth et al, 2004). Larger (excessive) muscle activity results in a higher position of the center of gravity above the horse's back at the beginning of therapy.…”

“…In equine studies biomechanical methods such as pressure measurement have been used to evaluate the force acting upon the back of a horse with various saddles (Fruehwirth, Peham, Scheidl, & Schobesberger, 2004;Winkelmayr, Peham, Fruehwirth, Licka, & Scheidl, 2006). The influence of the width of the saddle tree on the forces and the pressure distribution under the saddle was analyzed by Meschan, Peham, Schobesberger, and Licka (2007).…”

Evolving protocols for research in equitation science

“…Pressure-sensing technology has been adopted from medical and mechanical applications. Several authors have garnered valid information for horse equipment design and fit Byström et al, 2010;Fruehwirth et al, 2004;Hofmann et al, 2006;Kotschwar et al, 2010;Latif et al, 2010;Meschan et al, 2007;Monkemoller et al, 2005;Nyikos et al, 2005;von Peinen et al, 2010;Werner et al, 2002;Winkelmayr et al, 2006). More recently, attempts have been made to use this technology to measure changes in pressure on the horse's back from the rider's seat and legs (Belock et al, 2012;Byström et al, 2009;Byström et al, 2010;Clayton et al, 2013;de Cocq et al, 2008;de Cocq et al, 2009;de Cocq et al, 2010a, de Cocq et al, 2010b, Geutjens et al, 2008Nevison et al, 2011;Nevison and Timmis, 2013;Peham, 2008;Peham et al, 2004;von Peinen et al, 2009).…”