Here is a short list of some of the most common problems:
- Lack of bend
- Non apparent lameness
- Shortness of stride
- Hollowing of the back
- Bucking/broncing not normal behaviour
- Resistance to bascule over jumps
- Behaviour deterioration
- Stiffness general or one sided
Of course there are many other factors to be considered and unconsciously some problems are caused by us as owners/riders. Consider the following as a few examples:
Improperly fitting saddles
If the saddle has been specifically made to measure a particular horse by a qualified and respectable saddle fitter, there should be no problem. Problems arise when owners use one saddle for various horses or an inexperienced owner buys a saddle assuming they know the size. I often see horses who’s shoulders are impeded by a saddle that’s far too tight or a horse with subluxation’s and muscle spasm down its back from a saddle that is far too narrow in the gullet causing the spine to be pinched where there has been no room for the spine to flex or where the saddle is too long putting pressure on the weaker, less supported part of the back.
Mounting
Riders mostly mount from the left hand side. If this is done from a mounting block it puts far less stress and strain on the horses back and shoulders. If this is done from the ground it drags the left shoulder and the thoracic vertebrae down causing muscle weakness and subluxations.
Improper Shoeing
The importance of correct farriery cannot be overstated. Improper farriery practices as well as poor conformation can cause the additional load on the horses’ legs injury and damage to these structures and impair their function.
Incorrect schooling