23/02/2021
Fantastic article showing pressure differences between narrow twisted saddles and normal ones.
WE TALK ABOUT SADDLE WIDTH, BUT WHAT ABOUT THE TWIST?
People often talk about the width of the saddle but what about the twist? When looking at the saddle, the narrowest part of the seat is defined as the twist or waist (from here on it will be referred to as the twist). Some riders prefer a narrow twist, allowing them to feel a greater connection with the horse. This preference may also be driven by rider anatomy and or comfort, in respect that a narrower twist allows the rider’s hips to be less abducted (taken away from the saddle) compared to a saddle with a wider twist. The question here is, if riders opt for a narrow twist in an attempt to be closer to the horse and/or be more comfortable then what, if any effect does this have on the horse?
In a group of elite dressage horses, we have demonstrated the effect that a saddle with a narrow twist can have on saddle pressure distribution and equine locomotion (1). In this group of horses, saddle fit was checked and confirmed following industry guidelines. As with all of our research we combine various measuring systems, in this study we used pressure mapping and motion capture to quantify saddle pressure distribution and equine locomotion. Despite correct saddle fit, areas of high pressures were located either side of the back in the region of T10-T13 (1) (Image A). This area corresponds to the region where the saddle is at its narrowest (the twist) therefore, in this study, we found that saddles which had a narrow twist, caused areas of high pressures at T10-T13. The pressures were of a magnitude to be of concern and were repeatable every stride. Horses will develop a locomotor strategy to alleviate any discomfort caused, in this case, by the areas of high pressures in the region of T10-T13.
There have been significant advances in our understanding of the interaction between the horse-saddle-rider. Coupled with the advent of technology has meant significant advances in saddle design, construction and materials have been made in recent years. With saddlery modifications (Image B.) allowing more room at T10-T13 for the horse, without comprising the rider requirements (connection and comfort), we found that the areas of high pressures in the region of T10-T13 were reduced (1). When the magnitude of pressure was reduced with saddlery modifications, locomotion was altered with increased range of motion (1) and movement symmetry. In addition, back dimensions were altered in the region of T10-T13. This seems logical to expect, as high pressures induced by saddle width (see previous blog) have been shown to cause concavities in the back muscles (2), therefore, by reducing saddle pressures in the region of T10-T13 seems logical that muscle dimensions would also alter.
It should be noted that not “all” saddles which have a narrow twist will cause high pressures. However, it is hoped that this blog highlights the complexities of saddle fitting and further bolsters the need and importance of correct and regular saddle fit with a qualified saddle fitter, this cannot be over emphasised. The horse can feel a fly, why can they not feel a saddle which is creating high pressures? The answer is they can, they just develop a locomotor strategy to compensate. This study also highlights the impact that research can have on advancing our understanding on the effect that, in this case, the saddle can have on the horse. With this knowledge, saddle fitting can be modified for the good of the horse.
Hope this blog is of interest – please share to raise awareness on the complexities of saddle fitting.
Kind Regards
Dr. Russell MacKechnie-Guire
Centaur Biomechanics
1. Murray R, Guire R, Fisher M, Fairfax V. Reducing Peak Pressures Under the Saddle Panel at the Level of the 10th to 13th Thoracic Vertebrae May Be Associated With Improved Gait Features, Even When Saddles Are Fitted to Published Guidelines. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 2017;54:60-9.
2. MacKechnie-Guire R, MacKechnie-Guire E, Fairfax V, Fisher D, Fisher M, Pfau T. The Effect of Tree Width on Thoracolumbar and Limb Kinematics, Saddle Pressure Distribution, and Thoracolumbar Dimensions in Sports Horses in Trot and Canter. Animals (Basel). 2019;9(10).
