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Browsing book 2 - Reseach projects |
     
Please click on any of the titles below:
Contents:
1.1 Animal Health Trust - Dr Sue Dyson
1.2 AHT - case study - Behavioural problems
1.3 AHT - case study - Kissing spines
1.4 AHT - case study - Kissing spines
2 'Your Horse' Magazine - testing project
3 Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre
4.1 Highland Riding for the Disabled Group
4.2 Highland RDA Group - Partial paraplegia
4.3 Highland RDA Group - Partial paralysis
4.4 Highland RDA Group
5 Veterinary - Shoulder injury
6 Veterinary - Kissing spines
7 Medical - Ceribral palsy
8 Biomechanics - Research project using Equinalysis
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10 Case study - Performance problems
11 RDA - Rheumatoid arthritis
12 Equinalysis - Centur Biomechanics
13 Case study - Muscle wastage
14 Case studies – Landmarks Special Needs Group
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1.1 Animal Health Trust - Dr Sue Dyson.
Veterinary Referral Scheme
Launched in 2006, the scheme is designed to facilitate all equine veterinary surgeons in the diagnosis, treatment and management of back problems in ridden performance and leisure horses.
The first centre to use the scheme was The Equine Centre at The Animal Health Trust in Newmarket.
Solution saddles are available for loan to equine veterinary practices and their clients on application to participate in case studies.
The length of the term of the study will vary for individual cases, based on veterinary recommendation.
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“It has been my experience that some horses with back pain benefit tremendously by the use of The Solution treeless saddle.” (Dr. SJ Dyson 2006)
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Dr Sue Dyson at the Animal Health Trust “Clinical assessment of a horse with
a performance related problem working in The
Solution treeless saddle helps me to determine if
such a saddle might benefit the horse long term, although this may
take several days assessment to determine”
Sue’s main clinical interests are improving lameness and poor performance diagnosis by combining imaging techniques with comprehensive clinical evaluations. She has published extensively and lectured world wide on the diagnosis and management of orthopaedic injuries in the horse. Because Sue has also ridden at top national level in both eventing and show jumping and has produced horses that have subsequently competed at the Olympics and World Championships, she is in a unique position of understanding performance related problems from a rider and trainer’s point of view as well as that of a veterinary specialist.
The Equine Clinic at the AHT specialises in lameness and poor performance in horses from all disciplines, taking an integrated approach to diagnosis and management.
In one AHT case study, a horse that had appeared lame in front when ridden in its own saddle moved markedly better when The Solution was used and it was then possible to observe subtle hindlimb lameness. Several case studies undertaken at the AHT have
involved kissing spines syndrome (IDSP) and all have shown marked
improvement with the use of The
Solution saddle.
“…The horse was reassessed in
The
Solution treeless saddle and was more comfortable.
He was less strong, and had a better quality contact with the bit, working in a longer neck outline, less peacocky. He generally seemed more relaxed.”
“…The horse was ridden bareback and no lameness was detectable. The horse was then ridden with a saddle (the owner’s) and showed consistent right forelimb lameness on the right rein and a lot of resistances.
The horse was then ridden using The
Solution treeless saddle. The horse was prepared
to stretch down much more by the head and neck and was less lame.”
“I have investigated a number of horses previously with forelimb lameness that is only apparent when ridden and in many of these have failed to reach a diagnosis.” “…It is suggested that The
Solution treeless saddle is tried to see whether
use of this on a more prolonged basis results in any improvement.” “ …A horse that had a weird history
of plaiting in front as soon as it is tacked up, with intermittent
forelimb lameness and sometimes not right behind. I have spent many
days investigating but don’t have a definitive answer, but
it does go much better in The
Solution Saddle.”
Dr Sue Dyson MA VetMB DEO PhD FRCVS |
Sue Dyson is a Senior Orthopaedic Clinician in the Centre for Equine Studies at the Animal Health Trust. Sue qualified from the University of Cambridge in 1980 with a first class honours degree in Applied Biology, and a degree in Veterinary Medicine, with distinction in Medicine and Surgery.
Following award of a Thouron Scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania, she completed an Internship in Large Animal Medicine and Surgery at New Bolton Centre. Sue is constantly sought after to lecture internationally and she has published widely on equine orthopaedics and diagnostic imaging.
She has published more than 140 refereed papers in scientific journals. |
In 1986 Sue was awarded the Richard Hartley Clinical Prize by the Equine Veterinary Journal. In 2000 Sue was awarded the British Equine Veterinary Association John Hickman Orthopaedic Award for outstanding contributions to equine orthopaedics. In 2005 Sue was made an Honorary Member of the British Equine Veterinary Association. She also received, together with Mike Ross, the American Publishers award for excellence in professional and scholarly publishing for ‘Diagnosis and management of lameness in the horse' in the Nursing and Allied Health Division. In 2006 Sue was a co-recipient of the Home of Rest Clinical Evidence Literary Prize awarded by the Equine Veterinary Journal.
Sue has competed in eventing and show jumping at a high level, and produced three horses to advanced level that subsequently competed at European and World Championships, and Olympic Games. She is a co-author of the standard veterinary texts on radiography, scintigraphy and lameness diagnosis and management in the horse, and is recognised as a world-class leader in her field.
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1.2 Animal Health Trust. Case Study - Behavioural problems
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8 year old Thoroughbred X Gelding
The above horse was admitted to the Equine Centre on the 6th March 2006 with a history of resistant behaviour when ridden and reluctance to go forwards. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory treatment and physiotherapy resulted in short term improvement. The owner also commented that at times the saddle tended to slip one way.
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Clinical examination revealed that there were several granulomatous-like swellings in the saddle region, especially on the right side. When examined moving in hand on a hard surface no lameness was detectable. The horse was reasonably forward going. Proximal and distal limb flexion tests of the hindlimbs did not alter the gait significantly. Distal limb flexion tests of the forelimbs also did not alter the gait. The horse was able to turn in small circles and to back without difficulty. When examined moving on the lunge the horse went freely forwards in trot. He appeared stiffer on the right rein compared with the left rein. The horse frequently became disunited in canter. When ridden by the owner the horse tended to forge constantly and exhibited poor hindlimb impulsion. He never really worked through the back and onto the bit. He was consistently on the forehand and became increasingly resistant in canter. He then started to break from canter to trot and then repeatedly stopped and bucked and kicked out. It was noted that the rider tended to sit to the left. The owner commented that the horse was much less resistant than normal and had previously refused to go forwards even in walk.
A nuclear scintigraphic evaluation of the thoracolumbar
and pelvic regions and hindlimbs was performed. There was
moderate increased radiopharmaceutical uptake in the summits
of the dorsal spinous processes of the 12th and 13th thoracic
vertebrae.
Comprehensive radiographic examination of the thoracolumbar region revealed no detectable abnormality of the dorsal spinous processes, the facet joints and vertebral bodies and intervertebral disc spaces.
The following day when ridden the horse showed right forelimb
lameness on the right rein. There was also episodic napping
with the horse stopping and refusing to go forwards. When
re-evaluated later in the day again ridden the horse was
much less resistant, but on the right rein showed consistent
right forelimb lameness of variable degree. When mild the
lameness looked typical of a right forelimb lameness, however
when worse the lameness was characterised by raising of
the head as the left forelimb was protracted.
The horse was reassessed both in hand and on the lunge without a rider and no lameness was apparent. The horse was reassessed ridden and again showed right forelimb lameness on the right rein. It was noted that when first at the Animal Health Trust the horse consistently grunted when the girth was tightened.
Nerve blocks of the right forelimb were performed in sequence:
these produced no alteration in the lameness. On a subsequent
occasion intraarticular analgesia of the right scapulohumeral
joint and intraarticular analgesia of the right elbow joint
did not alter the lameness. Ultrasonographic examination
of the intertubercular bursae, shoulder musculature and
tendon of insertion of infraspinatus was performed bilaterally.
No abnormality was seen. Radiographic examination of the
caudal 1/3 of the neck region, the cervicothoracic junction
and the cranial ribs revealed no abnormality. Nuclear scintigraphic
evaluation of the forelimbs and neck revealed no abnormality.
The horse was reassessed clinically and no additional clinical observations were made. He was lunged with a saddle on and did not show lameness. Side-reins were applied quite tightly and the horse continued to move normally. The horse was ridden bareback and no lameness was detectable. The horse was then ridden with a saddle (the owner’s) and showed consistent right forelimb lameness on the right rein and a lot of resistances.
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| The horse could not maintain canter left. |
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The horse was then ridden using The
Solution treeless saddle. The horse was prepared
to stretch down much more by the head and neck and was less lame,
although some degree of lameness was still detectable on the right
rein.
Right forelimb lameness became apparent as a consistent feature only when ridden with a saddle on. Comprehensive investigation has failed to identify the cause of this right forelimb lameness and no other abnormality has been identified which might contribute to pain causing reluctance to work. I have investigated a number of horses previously with forelimb lameness that is only apparent when ridden and in many of these have failed to reach a diagnosis. The lameness has been characterised by abnormal lifting of the head and neck, sometimes making it difficult to determine which is the lame limb. It seems to be associated especially with movement of the shoulder region and the possibility of muscular or nerve damage on the axial aspect of the scapula must be considered. These areas are inaccessible to diagnostic imaging. It was therefore suggested that this horse is rested for 2 months whilst receiving treatment with non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs. During this period it might be worth lunging the horse on a regular basis in a Chambon or a Pessoa to encourage the horse to work in a round outline and maintain strength of the epaxial muscles in the thoracolumbar region. It is then suggested at the end of the 2 month period that ridden exercise is again attempted.
It is suggested that The
Solution treeless saddle is tried to see
whether use of this on a more prolonged basis results in any improvement.
Dr Sue Dyson MA VetMB DEO PhD FRCVS
Case History:
3 yrs - Backed & turned away.
4yrs - Restarted
5yrs - Competed young dressage horse classes.
6yrs - Started napping. Physio found nothing.
7yrs – Behaviour very bad & vet called. No sign of lameness, but did not evaluate ridden.
Prescribed physio, NSAIDs, 3weeks rest, followed by lunging.
Worked well for 1 month afterwards, then reverted to nappiness.
8yrs – Referred to AHT in March. 2 weeks investigation. 2mths off.
Referral by AHT to Total Saddle Solutions for fitting with The
Solution Saddle.
May ’06: the horse was assessed and fitted with The Solution.
The conformation was slightly croup high, which was pushing the tree points of the owner’s saddle tightly into the back of the scapula. The tree was narrow and tight in the points.
Before commencing ridden work as a 4yr old, the owner reported that the back was symmetrical and roundly contoured.
In contrast, the back now has areas of muscle atrophy, giving the appearance of “plasticine pony syndrome” where the imprint of the saddle is clearly visible in the contours of the back. Because the horse is otherwise slightly overweight and carrying fat deposits over the topline, this effect is accentuated by saddle pressure pushing the subcutaneous deposits out from under the saddle area. |
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Right side tree point hollow |
Left side rear hollow |
Left side of back is dropped leaving prominent appearance of spine. |
In particular, the left dorsal area to the rear of the saddle and the right thoracic trapezius in the tree point area are deeply hollowed and markedly asymmetrical, typical of the effect of the tree sitting to the left side of the back.
A number of skin nodules were present under the right rear panel of the saddle, typical of friction from saddle movement. Numbers of grey hairs had also appeared under the saddle area.
The owner had noted that the saddle cloths showed a very different pattern of grease accumulation between right and left sides.
Ridden assessment:
In addition to the repetition of the problems previously shown, it was noted that canter left was more difficult for the horse to strike off and maintain. The tail was carried stiffly to the left, lacking lift and swing, but swished almost continuously.
The
Solution Saddle was fitted and there was an
immediate improvement:
Canter left became easier, tail swish stopped; the horse was more willing to work forwards, the neck posture and rein contact became quieter and more elastic.
August ’06:
The horse was worked consistently in
The Solution saddle for 3 months and re-assessed:
The owner reported a marked improvement in this time, notably:
Lameness had disappeared, now a pleasure to ride.
Rider was able to sit to the trot – previously the horse would have hollowed instantly.
Saddle was helping the rider to be more effective – balance and posture have improved.
The horse’s back now feels more normal on palpation - the extreme sensitivity around the tree point area has disappeared, as have the muscle spasms.
Templates of the back were compared – the left side had increased in bulk.
The skin nodules had reduced in size and number.
He was no longer forging, dropping the back or hollowing.
Sweat and dirt pattern on the saddle cloths was now symmetrical.
Behaviour had improved so dramatically, that rider now felt safe to ride in an unfenced arena and to go out
hacking.
When assessed ridden:
Much more movement, forward, relaxed and swinging.
Obedient through all transitions and accepting contact.
Both horse and rider were straighter.
Stride length, regularity and impulsion were all notably altered, with an uphill posture and free shoulder movement.
There was no trace of nappiness.
Looking happier
Conclusion:
The horse is unable to perform in a treed saddle.
There is a possibility of muscular or nerve damage, which may be either long term or permanent.
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1.3 Animal Health Trust. Case Study - Kissing spines
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10 yr old 15.3 TB gelding
The above horse was admitted to the Equine Centre on the 31st May 2006. The case history was assessed and a clinical examination including lunging and ridden exercise performed on several occasions.
There was some tension in the longissimus dorsi muscles at the thoracolumbar junction. Extension and lateral flexion of the thoracolumbar region were somewhat limited.
When examined moving in hand on a hard surface on the first day of examination the horse showed subtle left hindlimb lameness. Distal limb flexion of the left forelimb did not alter the gait significantly, but distal limb flexion of the right forelimb induced mild left forelimb lameness. Proximal limb flexion of the right hindlimb did not alter the gait, but proximal limb flexion of the left hindlimb slightly accentuated the left hindlimb unlevelness. When examined moving on the lunge no lameness was seen. There was some tension in the epaxial muscles.
When ridden he was somewhat restricted in the movement of his back and did not engage the hindlimbs properly. With progressive work he became less comfortable, with some unsteadiness in the head carriage and a tendency to stumble behind, especially with the left hindlimb. These were consistent features whenever the horse was evaluated ridden.
Radiographic examination of the thoracolumbar region revealed impingement and overlapping of the dorsal spinous processes from the 14th thoracic to 1st lumbar vertebrae inclusive, with areas of cortical sclerosis and subcortical lysis at the points of apposition. Nuclear scintigraphic evaluation of the thoracolumbar and pelvic regions and hindlimbs revealed focal intense increased radiopharmaceutical uptake in the summit of the dorsal spinous process of the 14th thoracic vertebra. No other significant abnormality was identified.
The horse was reassessed ridden and then local anaesthetic solution was infiltrated around the impinging dorsal spinous processes. This resulted in a significant improvement. The horse moved with increased swing through its back, stretched down better with the head and neck and had a better quality of canter. The frequency of stumbling behind was markedly reduced.
Rectal examination revealed no palpable abnormality. Ultrasonographic evaluation of the lumbosacral joint per rectum revealed no abnormality. It was concluded that this horse’s primary
problem was impinging and overriding of the dorsal spinous processes
in the caudal thoracic and cranial lumbar regions. Treatment
options were discussed at length with the owner including local
infiltration with corticosteroids and Sarapin, shock wave therapy
or surgical treatment. It was also pointed out that the horse
would need to be ridden forwards positively and in an unrestricted
way if the horse was going to show clinical improvement following
treatment. It was ultimately decided in the first instance
to treat the horse by infiltration of corticosteroids and Sarapin
around the impinging dorsal spinous processes.
It is recommended that the horse is lunged daily for the first
2 weeks in a Pessoa or a Chambon in order to encourage the horse
to work through its back in a round outline and go forwards loosely
and freely. This will in part help to reduce the tendency
to stumble behind by facilitating breakover.
It has been our experience that some horses with
back pain benefit tremendously by the use of The
Solution
treeless saddle and a trial period could be arranged.
Ridden exercise may be introduced after 2 weeks of lunging and the horse should then be re-evaluated after a further 2 weeks.
Dr Sue Dyson MA VetMB DEO PhD FRCVS |
Case History:
Feb ’06: The horse was bought as a novice rider’s hack, without being vetted.
The back pain was observed almost immediately, but 3 different physios made no lasting difference.
May: Vet referred case to AHT.
AHT referred case to Total Saddle Solutions
for treeless saddle fitting.
June: Horse was assessed
and fitted with The
Solution.
The horse was underweight with poor topline musculature development and showed lordosis typical of IDSP and other back conditions.
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The horse had the obvious pot-bellied appearance and enlarged, tight brachiocephalic muscle, which is typical of poor posture and performance. |
The back had extensive scarring to the top of the spine in the mid-saddle region, from T10 – T14 with soft tissue inflammation and sensitivity to both sides in the same area. |
The dorsal muscles were extremely tight and sensitive to palpation.
The horse resented being tacked up and would become bargy and difficult to handle.
Ridden assessment:
After fitting with The
Solution saddle, the horse was immediately
more willing to move forwards, more relaxed and willing to stretch
the topline.
Aug: Re-assessment The owner reported that the horse had improved
from Day 1 in The
Solution saddle. He has become easy to tack
up.
In ridden work, the resentment, fear and panic have disappeared.
He has started to feel more alert, happier and is now hacking out very well. He has started also to feel fitter and the TB sharpness is beginning to become evident. Although he can react quickly, the owner never feels unbalanced or unsafe in the saddle – in fact she finds it helpful as she can move with him instead of being thrown off-balance.
In the school, he is working in a consistently round outline and his balance has improved, particularly to the right.
The physio has reported a big improvement in his overall condition and movement.
Templates of the tree point area were compared, showing an impressive 2cm gain in muscle bulk, despite no overall increase in bodyweight.
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18 months after starting to use The Solution saddle
– working happily and well muscle |
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1.4 Animal Health Trust. Case Study - Kissing spines
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Grand Prix dressage horse.
13 year old Dutch Warmblood Gelding.
The above horse was admitted to the Equine Centre on the 31st January 2006.
The case history was assessed and a clinical examination including lunging and ridden exercise performed on multiple occasions.
The thoracolumbar region was not as well muscled as the neck or pelvic regions, with particular loss of muscle immediately caudal to the withers, and some thickening of the soft tissues on either side of the dorsal spinous processes at approximately the 10th to 12th thoracic vertebrae. There was tension in the longissimus dorsi muscles in the caudal thoracic and cranial lumbar regions, more on the right side compared with the left. Flexion in the sagittal plane was adequate, but there was limited extension and lateral flexibility.
When examined moving in hand on a hard surface the horse was
rather short striding overall and held his back rather stiffly,
lacking flare or animation, although not showing any overt lameness.
Manipulative tests of the fore and hindlimbs did not alter the
gait significantly.
When examined moving on the lunge the horse tended to hold his
whole body in a rather rigid frame, never seeking down and moving
with a stiff back. There was a rather “peacocky” position
of the head and neck. The horse was significantly stiffer to the
right, tending to look out and lean the body in. He lacked hindlimb
impulsion and did not have a very big forelimb gait. He was more
hurried on the right rein compared with the left.
When ridden by the owner the horse continued to move with a stiff
back and a peacocky outline of the head and neck. There was much
more tension if asked to bend to the right. The horse tended to
brace his back and never really worked in a round true outline.
No overt lameness was seen. The horse tended to get strong. His
medium and extended paces were better than collection.
A nuclear scintigraphic evaluation of the thoracolumbar and pelvic regions and hindlimbs was performed. There was focal intense increased radiopharmaceutical uptake in the summits of the dorsal spinous processes of the 15th and 16th thoracic vertebrae. Radiographic examination of the thoracolumbar region was performed, evaluating not only the dorsal spinous processes but also the facet joints and vertebral bodies. The dorsal spinous processes of the 14th thoracic to 1st lumbar vertebrae were close, with cortical sclerosis and modelling. The horse was reassessed ridden by one of the Animal Health Trust Yard Staff and showed similar clinical signs. He was also ridden in The
Solution Saddle in which the horse was more
comfortable.
He was less strong, and had a better quality contact with the
bit, working in a longer neck outline, less peacocky.
He generally seemed more relaxed, however still showed marked
stiffness in lateral work with a particular reluctance to bend
to the right.
On a subsequent occasion the horse was ridden and then infiltration
of local anaesthetic solution was performed around the impinging
dorsal spinous processes. This again made the horse significantly
more relaxed with less tension, but there was no change in the
fluidity of the lateral work. The horse has clinical evidence of back pain. Although the horse
does have impinging dorsal spinous processes, which I believe
are contributing to pain, in my opinion there is some other cause
which I have not been able to identify.
There is no doubt that the horse moves and works more comfortably
in The
Solution Saddle compared with a traditional
saddle.
Following discussion with the owner, the region of the impinging
dorsal spinous processes has been treated with shock wave therapy.
A further 2 treatments will be required at approximately 2 weekly
intervals. In the interim it is advised that the horse is restricted
to walking exercise only for up to 45 minutes daily. Given the
long term nature of this horse’s clinical problems I think
it is unlikely that they will be fully resolved, but it is possible
that some improvement may be achieved.
Dr Sue Dyson MA VetMB DEO PhD FRCVS
Case History:
Throughout his working life, the horse had been ridden by relatively tall men (therefore heavier riders).
2004 – bought as Grand Prix dressage schoolmaster.
Always had difficulty with work, but trainer said rider issue.
After 6 months was dreadful – horse was angry, running away, panicky.
Became unrideable in tests.
Referred to AHT in Feb ’06.
AHT referred owner to Total
Saddle Solutions for treeless saddle trial.
April ’06 – Assessment and fitting with
The Solution Saddle.
The back was sensitive and the horse showed considerable resentment to palpation of the dorsal muscles.
There was atrophy of the entire dorsal area, particularly the left side and the spine was prominent with deep hollows in the tree points.
Fitted with The
Solution, the horse immediately became freer
in the walk. Although he started very stiff and unlevel in the
trot, he improved quickly.
The owner noted that he was looser and more relaxed than usual.
The trot started to swing and after a period of canter, became much more engaged and forward, with better shoulder action.
The owner commented that he started to feel much happier and was thrilled with the difference in his movement.
She said that he was now able to turn right without loss of balance, which was a shock!
August - The horse was re-assessed.
The horse was now fitter and stronger and the owner felt that he had come on a long way – “from cripple to normal”.
The owner’s own vet also thought that the horse had improved.
The shoulder was much freer and he was generally suppler. He appeared less dropped on the left side of his back.
He had successfully returned to competition, gaining 64% in Grand Prix – a personal best. Previously, he had only attained 55% at that level.
The owner had also been using The
Solution with all her other dressage horses
and said that they all preferred it to her treed saddles.
She commented that her own back also felt much better.
A return to form – the horse returned to competition and continued to progress.
Conclusion:
With the use of The
Solution Saddle, this horse was able to return
to work and continue to develop and improve, even at 13yrs of
age.
He is not able to perform well in a treed saddle.
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2 'Your Horse' Magazine - testing project
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| 10 yrs ID/TB gelding, owned since 2001.
All-rounder, PN level.
19.11.05 – First assessment.
Ridden in Ideal Event when first bought, but not free in shoulders.
Current saddles:
Hacks in Free & Easy GP, Albion dressage for schooling.
Not much difference in way of going between the two.
Condition:
Horse has changed shape in the last 5 years – now much narrower behind the shoulder.
Spine prominent across dorsal area, dropped and sensitive on left side.
Performance:
In own saddle - Sensitive, uptight and spooky. Easily distracted schooling. Carries saddle to left.
The
Solution saddle:
Rider noticed less strain in lower back and became aware of how crooked the horse was.
Horse started to move slightly more uphill and straighter.
4.1.06 – The Solution saddle Initial Fitting
Has continued to be ridden in Free & Easy and Albion saddles.
Condition:
Has dropped topline since first assessment.
Spine more prominent. Very sensitive on left side of rear saddle area, with muscle spasm and nerve
twitching.
Cervical trapezius contracted.
Performance in The
Solution Saddle:
Tense to start, but stride then started to lengthen.
Saddle carried level.
Improving trot rhythm and becoming more uphill in neck posture, although remained heavy in hand. 6.3.06 – Commencement of 6 month trial
period in The
Solution Saddle
Has up to this point continued to be ridden in Free & Easy and Albion saddles.
Condition: Dorsal muscle atrophy increased on left side with severe spasm.
Left side of pectorals tight and sensitive.
Will now be ridden entirely in The
Solution saddle.
18.4.06 – First assessment of The
Solution Saddle trial
Has done all ridden work for last month in The
Solution saddles.
Condition:
Has gained weight overall, with improved topline.
Left dorsal musculature and cervical trapezius have increased bulk.
Performance:
Saddle sitting straight and rider is now straighter. Rider feels more “down and around horse” in the Solution Energist.
The working in period is now much shorter – it is easier to get the horse working better from the outset.
All the work shows improved shoulder action.
Canter right is much improved – uphill and balanced. Canter left is not yet straight, with a tendency to fall out.
Has started competing – excellent result at a horse trials.
Rider: now feels behind balance, with a chair seat, due to horse’s weight gain lifting the saddle.
The saddle was rebalanced and the rider made comfortable.
The rider had done last lesson in her old treed saddle as The
Solution saddle not feeling quite right, but
return to tree felt odd and perched, and it was not possible to
feel the lateral crookedness.
In the Solution
Jumper, the rider was also feeling slightly behind the balance and
the saddle was refitted to produce an effective position with the
rider able to ride forward in good balance.
Apart from the balance correction required, Alison says she loves every other aspect of the saddles. 22.6.06 –Review of The
Solution saddle trial.
Has continued all ridden work in Solution saddles.
Condition:
Has continued to gain weight, now in excellent bodily condition.
Dorsal musculature is becoming more symmetrical.
Performance:
Improved contact and straightness. More relaxed and forward.
Rider: again starting to feel tipped back as the horse continues to develop.
The rider had added rear shims to improve balance, but this had put padding bulk under the thigh, and she was feeling the saddle too wide.
The saddle was rebalanced and the knee blocks changed to give an improved feel on the changed
shape of the horse. 21.9.06 – Final review
Has continued all ridden work in The
Solution Saddles during the six month trial.
Condition:
Dorsal musculature almost level and now completely free of spasm – nerve twitches have disappeared.
Templates show good regeneration of the thoracic trapezius and latiissimus dorsi in the tree point area, with a larger increase in bulk on the left side of 1.5cm, representing growth of 2.5mm per month.
The cervical trapezius shows a similar regeneration, with again a greater increase on the left side.
Palpation of the back felt very good, with no areas of sensitivity to be found.
Performance:
The combination has worked consistently with the same trainer over the last 18 months and the
flatwork is now much better: suppler, more obedient, rhythmical, and consistent.
The trainer feels that “the horse now starts work sessions from a better place than 6 months ago.”
Rider: Feels that the horse is now ready to start work in a double bridle – the contact has improved dramatically, the medium gaits have developed and the horse really tries in the lateral work without finding problems.
The rider now feels she is able to do less and can concentrate more easily on improving her position and application of the aids for the more advanced work.
Competition:
Has done a PN horse trial successfully, and recently won a combined training competition.
Conclusion
After changing to The
Solution Saddle, this horse has shown steady
and consistent improvement in muscular development, athletic ability,
performance and attitude over a six month period.
When correctly balanced, the rider finds the saddles comfortable and effective rider tools.
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Jester’s back is now well rounded and nearly symmetrical |
Freedom and expression in The Solution saddle |
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3 Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre
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The Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre is the original UK charity dedicated to the welfare of exracehorses.
Established in 1991 and gaining charitable status in 1993, the TRC is acknowledged as the leading specialist in rehabilitating and re homing thoroughbred ex-racehorses in need.
The TRC was founded by Carrie Humble, who remains the director, and whose work was recognised by her being awarded the MBE in the summer of 2003. The patrons of the charity are Sir Peter O’Sullevan CBE, Frankie Dettori, Lord Oaksey, the Marquess of Zetland, Charles Lawson, Peter Humble, Sarah Fisher, Anthony Head and Louise Owen.
Carrie Humble, MBE, founder and director of the TRC pictured with Hallo Dandy, winner of the 1984 Grand National and
TRC resident 1994-2007. |
“We breed them, we train them, we ride them, we stretch them to their limits, we bet on them, wesell them, we owe them – either a decent life or a humane exit.” |
Approximately 3,000 horses can leave race training each year in the UK. Some of these talented horses filter into other equestrian fields but the majority end up in salerooms where there is no control over their destination. The TRC takes in ex-racehorses in need; a few come directly off the track from race owners or trainers, the rest come from private owners no longer able to care for or manage these special equines.
Some of the arrivals are traumatised or neglected, or carry high levels of pain, with back and mouth problems being particularly common. Many have behavioural or soundness problems. The TRC provides an environment of safety and experienced care where all these horses can be reeducated and rehabilitated. A team of dedicated professionals is employed to give every horse the best possible chance of success - the vet, farrier, dentist, physiotherapist and riding trainer all work closely together to diagnose and resolve the multitude of issues that are found. The horse is then started on an individual training programme to suit its needs to prepare both physically and
mentally for re-homing with a suitable TRC loaner. Once TRC horses are re-homed they are monitored for life. The Solution saddle at The TRC
Solution saddles is proud to be associated with such a high
profile charity as the TRC whose passion is for horse welfare. This
is The
Solution’s reason for starting our company
– the welfare of the horse. We believe that saddle issues
are not only poorly understood, but that they are one of the biggest
welfare issues of our time. It is essential that we work together
to raise awareness of back, saddle and performance issues in order
to promote a better understanding worldwide, and also to continue
to research and develop our range for the good of the horse.
The treeless Solution
Saddle has proved itself to be a very valuable
tool in the retraining and rehabilitation process at the TRC.
Julie Robinson, BHSII is the resident trainer who supervises the work programme for all the horses. She has used the saddle extensively, with particular success where there have been existing back or attitude issues.
This thoroughbred arrived with extensive trauma to his back.
He was very fidgety to mount and habitually “boiled up” particularly in canter. |
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The back shows a prominent wither with severe muscle atrophy in the tree point area.
A large bursal enlargement can be seen towards the rear of the saddle area. |
Julie says, “ This horse has taken very well
to The
Solution Saddle and it has helped him enormously
in his rehabilitation. His previous owners were astounded at how
well he is looking and working. He is more responsive, feels freer,
not as twitchy at his wither or as swishy in his tail.” She
continues: “There has been a marked improvement in the way
of going of all the horses on which we use The
Solution Saddles.
The saddles have been a tremendous help when dealing with the problems that we routinely encounter in retraining ex-racehorses.
The horses free up in their backs and consequently have fewer back problems.
We are now seeing some really positive results where there have been existing or chronic problems. Much of the time, the problems remain in the memory of the horse, but with the treeless saddle, they feel the difference straight away, and quickly learn to trust that it will not hurt or restrict them.”
When loaners first come to the TRC they have a ridden assessment
in order to determine their level of experience and to match their
ability with a suitable horse. They ride this schoolmaster on The
Solution Saddle and always remark on its comfort
and the unusual feeling of being directly connected to the horse’s
movement through The
Solution Saddle – a connection they do
not feel with their conventional saddles.
Carrie Humble, MBE, founder and director of the TRC says:
“I have an intense dislike for heavy rigid saddles and as so many horses arrive at the Centre with chronic back problems it is wonderful to be able to work with a light, supple saddle that allows the horse and rider such freedom of movement and connection.”
If you would like to find out more about the long term loan of a TRC horse, or would like to donate to this very worthwhile cause, please visit their website www.thoroughbredrehabilitationcentre.co.uk
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Monty – one of the success stories of the both TRC and The Solution saddle. |
Rocky (Leopard Rock) was rehabilitated for a year in The Solution before being successfully rehomed. |
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Supply and Demand has been ridden exclusively in The Solution since 2006. |
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4.1 Highland RDA Group
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Since Clare has been riding Jack with The
Solution Saddle she has found it far
more comfortable than his previous 'treed' saddle. Her legs
are in a better position and she finds it easier to keep in
rhythm with his trot.
Jill Thomson, Highland Group RDA. |
| Clare and Jack. |
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4.2 Highland RDA Group -
Partial paraplegia
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After an operation for a brain tumour, I have been left with partial left sided paraplegia with cerebral VP shunt, deafness, sight defect and impaired balance.
For every rider, a saddle needs to be comfortable and likewise,
it should never be ill fitting for your equine ‘companion’.
‘The
Solution’ saddle has a lovely design:
simple and neat with real shape which in my opinion helped
me to feel more ‘centred’ when using it.
I use it regularly when riding my favourite pony, a 14.2HH Norwegian Fjord, whilst schooling, having lessons and competing in dressage.
As a disabled rider, I certainly appreciate how secure and well placed it makes me feel in this saddle.
It also helped to complete our smart look during our dressage to music display at the prestigious 3-day event at Blair Castle. I’ve also observed others using it too: whatever size and shape of the horse it looks ‘right’ and riders seem to naturally position themselves into a relaxed and comfortable looking, classic position. This has got to be a good thing for novices and experienced riders alike.
In my opinion at least, once used this saddle speaks for itself. Not only will it look good and take you anywhere, your horse will appreciate it too.
Julie Ashby |
| Julie and Freya |
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4.3 Highland RDA Group - Partial paralysis
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I started riding with the RDA at the end of 1995 after a virus left me with partial paralysis resulting in no skin sensation form the waist down and total paralysis in my lower limbs.
Since using The
Solution Saddle, I have found it much
easier to sit to the trot and am not thrown about as I sometimes
have been on a horse with a particularly bouncy trot. I’ve
also noticed the horse is far quicker ‘off the aids’
than when using a traditional treed saddle. The
Solution is extremely comfortable to
ride in.
Initially I wondered if I would feel insecure, but quite the opposite: the feeling is of security and balance; my legs seem to be in a better position than usual as well.
In addition to riding Rufus, I’ve tried The
Solution with other horses and have been
delighted with it. |
| Jill Thomson and Rufus |
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4.4 Highland RDA Group
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David has a number of difficulties and it
is interesting to see the difference Helen, his carer, has
noticed when David rides using the Solution
Saddle.
David has been horse riding with the Highland Group for a
number of years and thoroughly enjoys it; it helps to maintain
his fitness and he has a great rapport with Jack, the horse
he rides. Helen has been taking David riding for 7 months
now and has noticed the improvement in his balance and posture
whilst riding in the Solution
Saddle.
Due to David having no sight it is imperative that he maintains good balance and posture while riding and Helen thinks that the saddle is definitely of great benefit to him, in particular the shape of the knee rolls.
Since riding with the Solution
saddle David has been riding outside
a lot more and has also been attempting small jumps. He recently
took part, and did very well, in a ‘Handy Pony’
competition held to raise funds for the group. |
| David MacConnachie riding Jack, with Helen, David’s carer. |
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5 Veterinary - Shoulder injury
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Crackenthorpe Jamboree (Tom) is a 15.3 homebred Warmblood gelding Owned by Susan and Clare Chappelhow from Crackenthorpe Stud. |
One day in January 2006, Tom was found in the field with a massive tear to his shoulder.
Somehow he had ripped right through the layers of superficial and deep shoulder muscles exposing the bone of the scapula; a deep wound, 122 long and 8” wide, probably with associated nerve damage as well. The vet suspected that the bone had been chipped and that euthanasia would be the kindest option. He did not believe that he would ever be sound again. “We thought it was the end of the road for Tom” said Clare. |
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But the Chappelhows were determined to give Tom every chance of recovery and embarked on a long rehabilitation programme. With his special, bubbly and kind personality, he just deserved the best.
As an Equine Massage Therapist, I began to treat Tom as part of this plan, along with Lucy Crow, Equine Osteopath, who also visited regularly. We both noticed that, although he was recovering well, he was beginning to use himself unevenly; there would be tightness in his off-hind to compensate for the extra work that the near shoulder was doing in supporting the injured shoulder.
Gradually his shoulder muscles began to atrophy and his shape became increasingly asymmetrical.
Tom was ridden in a Solution treeless saddle which was able to constantly flex and mould to his movement, allowing him freedom to change his shape and redevelop his musculature.
For Clare and Susan The
Solution saddle was the only option for him.
No other saddle would do the job that he needed. A treed saddle
would only have created more atrophy and the last thing they wanted
to do was to impede his action. Gradually, Tom started to go well
enough to begin competing again.
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Crooklands |
British Dressage with Jumping Championships |
He was level and sound.
People who saw him could not believe that he had recovered at all, let alone was working so well.
Within five months of his injury, he had won a Medium affiliated dressage competition, been placed at the British Dressage Championships and qualified for The Horse of the Year Show.
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The British Dressage Championships |
The Great Yorkshire Show |
In 2008, Tom started to event at Advanced level
again, regaining his qualifications and aiming for a CCI***. Susan
is convinced that The
Solution saddle has been a major part of his
success. “He won’t have anything else on his back –
no other saddle can do the job.”
Clare says, “There is no way this horse would be working under
a saddle at all, if it was not for The
Solution.”
At Crackenthorpe Stud, the Chappelhows now use
Solution saddles for all their horses as they
find they achieve the most effective performance with them.
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Ridden Sports Horse Championship,
The National Showing Championships |
Petplan Open Medium Dressage Championships |
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6 Veterinary - Kissing Spines
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This is the story of Max, my lovely horse, who has been ridden
in a
Solution Freestyle dressage saddle since
October 2007.
Max is an ex flat racehorse who I bought in Sept 2002 aged 4.5
years and straight off the track, and he is now 10.
I could not get a saddle to fit him; even the one I had made,
I was not convinced he was comfortable in it and his problems
were not getting better. Max did not want to go forward, was disunited
in canter and generally not very happy.
Eventually I found a vet who could see what I did and we sent
him to the Royal Dick Veterinary School in Edinburgh in April
2006, where he was diagnosed with kissing spines.
After a successful operation and over a year off, he was ready
to come slowly back into work.
This long lay off had given me time to research and I found Solution
Saddles. Karen Redfearn, the Solution Technical
Advisor who initially came to see Max was very knowledgeable and
patient.
Initially, when Max tried the saddle with me, he was so lacking
confidence to move that he had to be led around the arena, but
he soon realised that it was not going to hurt.
We have slowly been building up the work over the last 10 months
and now he is amazing compared to that day!
His shoulder muscles have suddenly started to build up which means
everything is comfortable and working as it should do, and with
regular physio and Bowen therapy he is very comfortable in his
back.
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Max working during the last clinic in August I went to with Portuguese classical trainer Pedro Neves. |
I am so pleased with him - we hack out regularly and lunge, interspersed with short schooling sessions.
I am sure that his muscles are developing so well because The
Solution saddle is comfortable and allowing
his back to move.
I love the saddle too!
Many thanks
Vicky Armitage, August 2008.
Northumberland
Max’s progress from April 2007
12 months post surgery for Impinging Dorsal Spinal Processes (IDSP or kissing spines (T16-L2)
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April 2007 |
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June 07 |
August 07 |
Oct 07
Ridden every other day:
– Either hacked in walk 1 hour
– Or lightly schooled for 30-40mins – mainly walking on long rein for at least 10mins then picking a long contact and working a little rounder in walk and trot – big circles. One or two steps of leg yield and plenty of walking breaks on free rein.
Pessoa work every other day – 20 mins of mainly walk and little periods of trot on big circles.
Stretches after with carrot between legs and reflex action on quarters to hump back.
Progress:
The first few times with the saddle, he was stiff through the back for about 10mins and then once he was confident he really started to swing his back and take longer strides.
Stiffness is becoming much less now and he really enjoys his hacks.
More confident and happier in school.
Pessoa work is good – plenty of stretching down in walk and trot.
Muscles in back soft and loose.
November 07:
Started some trotting on hacks and introduced lateral work with schooling.
Max is feeling much freer and less stiff when ridden.
He can now walk down shallow inclines on roads without crabbing and stopping – with free and confident strides – the first time ever!
Max’s physio, reports that he is much better, although he still has some deep muscle trouble in pelvic/quarters area. This is better than it has been though.
Although he has not seen a Solution saddle before, Lee was impressed, particularly as Max had no pain in his saddle area for the first time in years!
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7 Medical - Cerebral palsy
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I’d like to share with you how much better both I and my pony Rowan feel with our new saddle.
I didn’t realise he had a problem with his previous saddle
(which had been fitted by a master saddle fitter and checked regularly)
but when I tried the
Solution saddle, the difference was instant.
He was able to move much more freely from his shoulder, his rhythm
improved no end, and he was able to bend much better. He was also
instantly more settled (no more bucks or head shaking).
All these improvements were not a one-off, but a consistent and permanent change. I get the impression he actually likes working much better with the new saddle; it’s almost as if he was enjoying his ability to move better (and probably much more comfortably!). Since we’ve had the new saddle we’ve received several (unprompted) comments from people on how well he moves.
Also I am much more comfortable in The
Solution. I love how close to my horse I
feel now; my ability to influence him through my seat is much
more immediate and effective.
What is also quite apparent is that the saddle itself is much more comfortable. I thought my previous saddle was, but the Solutions saddle flexes and gives gently to both the horse’s and my own movement, and this, too, contributes greatly to a better, more connected seat. In sitting trot and canter my seat just doesn’t lose contact with the saddle at all any more.
I have Cerebral Palsy (CP) affecting my legs.
Many people with CP regularly experience a feeling of their muscles
tightening up, or going stiff, and they can’t do anything
about it. This can greatly affect our position on the horse, as
it can cause our knees to rise and almost lever us out of the
saddle. And it can be very painful!
The reason for this is increased muscle tone. The muscle tone
increases further as a result of pain, jarring movement, physical
effort, or tension (physical or mental). To a much lesser extent
this happens in people without a neurological problem, too. You
know that you go all tense when you’re very cold, or that
you tend to clench your jaw and/or fists when you’re making
a big physical effort. In many people with CP (and other neurological
disabilities) this is just much more pronounced and uncontrollable.
In terms of my own riding, I think because of the softer contact
with the horse and saddle, my muscle tone now stays much more
relaxed in all three paces. This is great for my seat and balance
on the horse.
Overall a great success story: I’m a very happy rider on a very happy pony.
So thanks again to the team, and particularly to Karen, the Solution Technical Advisor who did such a wonderful and patient job of fitting us.
Dorothée
16.7.08
Recently, in The
Solution saddle:
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It is apparent how well Rowan can bend now |
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My position is improved - I can get my knees lower and have less of a chair seat |
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Rowan's movement is better. |
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8 Myerscough College - Research project using Equinalysis
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Comparison of biomechanical changes between a traditional
treed saddle and a Solution
saddle.
Significant differences in neck length were observed between the treed and the treeless saddle, with the neck length being longer in the treeless saddle. This may suggest that the treeless saddle was associated with increased movement of the back.
Observations appeared to show increased stretching of the neck with lowering of the head and neck which supports the assumption that neck length is increased when the head and neck are lowered.
The video data also appeared to show more engagement of the hindlimbs with the treeless saddle with more horses “tracking up” (hind hoof falling in the same place as the fore as opposed to slightly behind).
Other observations included the tendency for the horses to perform more in an “outline” with the head more vertically aligned and carried lower in the treeless saddle.
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Neck length with treed saddle in trot |
Neck length with treeless saddle in trot |
The research has shown that The
Solution saddle appears to improve the movement
of the back shown with an increase in neck length, suggesting that
the treeless saddle may be a useful alternative to a treed saddle.
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10 Case study - Performance problems
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Muffin, ID x TB mare, 15.3. 18 yrs. Hunter.
Muffin has a long history of changing ownership and being a very difficult ride – she is strong and prone to rushing, often in an uncontrollable panic.
Although her conformation is relatively good, she has a marked pain response throughout the dorsal area.
There is a pronounced extension (dip) in the back with severe muscle atrophy in the saddle area. |
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A “razor back” – a very prominent spine with little muscle support in the saddle area.
The skin and hair pattern show friction rubs, lumps, hair loss and discolouration.
The left side is very hollowed behind the shoulder, in the tree point area. |
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The right side of the back reveals even more lumps and rubs.
In the mid-waist region of the saddle, there is a torque point seen as raised and thickened skin on top of the spinal processes.
There is inflammation on the right side of the wither in
the stirrup bar area, suggesting that the tree has been
twisting and tilting onto the left side of the back. |
| Fitted for the first time in a Solution
Saddle Muffin at first takes off in her
usual style, pulling the rider out of balance.
Her mouth opens as she
braces and shortens her neck, tightens her back down and
clamps her tail.
The knee and hock action is
high, jerky and concussive. |
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A short while later, although still strong, Muffin stops running away and allows the rider to sit on her back.
The neck is no longer braced and the back action is improving – seen here by a lifting of the abdomen.
There is the beginning of confidence, but Muffin has a long way to go
– watch this space…
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One week later…
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… a calm and willing horse |
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11 RDA - rheumatoid arthritis
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Mary Andrews and Shuna, using The
Solution Saddle.
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I am an adult member of the RDA who rides as an individual and enjoys hacking and dressage. I am also taking my first tentative steps to competing in BHS TREC competitions.
I have had rheumatoid arthritis all my adult life and am under strict instructions not to fall off.
The
Solution saddle on loan to the Highland
Group RDA suits me very well. It has a deep, secure seat with
knee rolls – all very helpful in keeping me on board!
Furthermore having had both hips replaced I have little fat or muscle under my seat bones and find this treeless saddle more comfortable to ride in than the treed equivalent.
I can also be confident that the saddle is causing Shuna no back problems - she has a wide, flat back with
low withers and treed saddles tend to make her sore. Thank you Solution
Saddles! |
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12 Equinalysis - Centur Biomechanics
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Centaur Biomechanics 10.10.08
Study Aim:
To investigate the comparative differences between a traditional
English treed saddle and the Solution
saddles.
Results:
Showing the differences between left and right rein trials.
The higher the number, the greater the difference, or asymmetry, seen in the horse’s movement between the left rein and the right rein
– All variables shown record greater asymmetry when using the traditional English treed saddle.
| Variable |
Treed |
Solution 1 |
Solution 2 |
| Stride length |
0.14 |
0.02 |
0.10 |
| Protraction |
1.33 |
0.89 |
0.17 |
| Carpal Flexion |
3.18 |
0.86 |
2.67 |
| Fetlock Hyperextension |
5.34 |
1.15 |
0.56 |
Forelimb flexion
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Peak carpal flexion is when the carpal joint is most flexed during swing, indicating the degree of flexion. |
Fetlock motion
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One of the most critical and useful variables to evaluate in any locomotory assessment is the degree of fetlock hyperextension. |
“When considering the above data, it can be seen that
there was a positive change in joint motion when the Solution
Saddle was used compared to the traditional English
treed saddle.
The most pleasing of all is the change in fetlock hyperextension,
as there was a significant decrease in the difference in left and
right fetlock motion when using the Solution
Saddle compared to the traditional English treed
saddle.
The Solution Saddle has performed very well during this investigation.”
Russell Guire, Centaur Biomechanics
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13 Case Study - Severe Muscle Wastage in a Thoroughbred
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A 12 yr old thoroughbred mare with a history of extensive back problems was described by the owner as hollow and resistant in her way of going and lacking confidence in jumping.
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In canter, the horse moves very croup high, pushing its centre of mass over the weight bearing forelimb, which moves behind the vertical.
This causes loss of balance and a “downhill” gait.
The effect on the rider is a corresponding loss of balance and gripping up of the leg. |
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The horse has difficulty maintaining the canter and loses the moment of suspension as the gait becomes four-time.
The neck is then braced in an attempt to continue without further loss of balance.
The rider is increasingly insecure as the horse leans on the hand. |
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Finally, in an effort to regain balance, the rider stands up out of the saddle and places all the weight in the stirrup. |
On examination, the horse reveals a very weak topline with an exceptionally
prominent wither and dorsal spine – a razor back.
There was a sharp pain response on palpation of the dorsal spinal
processes. Fibrous swellings can be seen in the pommel arch and
tree point areas.
There was extensive muscle spasm in the dorsal musculature which
was extremely sensitive to palpation, particularly on the left side.
The horse was fitted with a Solution
Energist and within a short time was working with a marked improvement.
The neck posture is no longer braced, leading to an soft acceptance of the contact.
Whilst still slightly croup high, the balance is consistent and the horse is lighter on its feet.
The swinging stride has less knee action and covers more ground.
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The effect on the rider is immediate: alignment of posture giving a balanced, independent and much more effective seat. |
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14 Case studies – Landmarks Special Needs Group
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About Landmarks
Since 1995 Landmarks, a registered charity, has provided vocational education and training for students with learning difficulties and disabilities. It has become the foremost independent provider of non-residential education, training and day care facilities for people with special needs.
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The charity provides a caring and stimulating environment where people with disabilities can discover their potential and develop personal skills which will equip them for a positive role in the wider community.
The facilities are based at a 20-acre working farm and an adjacent farm of 220 acres, both in Creswell.
A range of courses in animal care and practical land-based activities related to the running of a farm, conservation and horticulture are offered.
There is an extensive Skills for Life programme covering literacy, numeracy and e-learning, with extended work experience options.
All of the courses, normally designed for three years, are accredited with City & Guilds, Essential Skills (MENCAP), NPTC (National Proficiency Test Council) or OCN (Open College Network).
Through practical activities students develop their basic skills, self-awareness and confidence to prepare them to achieve their goals and to move on to another college or into employment.
Landmarks is funded through the Learning and Skills Council, Chesterfield and North Nottinghamshire Colleges, Social Services, parents and other charities.
About 80 students attend each week. There is great demand for places which are restricted in order to maintain the high standards of quality. |
Solution Saddles assists Landmarks charity
When Solution Saddles discovered that a local charity had all their tack stolen in a burglary, the company stepped in to help. Landmarks College in Derbyshire helps young people with special needs gain work experience in land based courses. Horses are being used very successfully at the Cresswell centre to encourage those with a broad spectrum of learning and behavioural disorders to build confidence and communication skills. Learners are able to choose their own programmes and riding is the most popular selection.
The Solution saddle has a unique RigidFree™ design that allows it to be fitted to different horses’ back shapes. This made it an ideal choice where funds were limited and the centre was unable to replace all the saddles that were stolen.
But what the staff and students at Landmarks did not expect, was the huge impact their new saddle would have. |
Landmarks college with Billy |
Anne Bondi, Solution Saddles Managing Director, took a saddle along to the stables to demonstrate its usefulness to Rebecca, a member of the Learning Support staff.
Billy the elderly Dales cob was the guinea pig for the occasion, but he had not been ridden since his saddle “disappeared” and the lack of exercise had unfortunately contributed to serious weight gain.
Billy suffers from a metabolic disorder that makes his weight very difficult to manage and can result in bouts of the painful condition, laminitis, which in turn leads to more time off work.
The naturally broad shoulders and wide back shape of the native Dales breed makes it extremely difficult to fit the rigid frame of a conventional saddle to; combined with his tendency to carry excessive fat, Billy was a real challenge to saddle fitters.
Rebecca explained that Billy’s old saddle had been holding back ridden activities because its poor fit caused it to roll around on his back, causing lack of stability and loss of security for riders.
As this was unsafe, it was deemed necessary to have two assistants hold the saddle in place while students were trying to learn balance skills for riding – a most unsatisfactory arrangement, particularly when many of the learners were quite capable of balancing unaided and would have clearly benefited from the opportunity of greater independence to build confidence and self-esteem.
Rebecca was not only impressed by how quickly and easily the flexible Solution saddle was fitted to Billy, but was amazed at the transformation in the cob’s ability to move more freely. She felt him able to turn more easily: “not like a plank”. His trot steps were less choppy and he stopped slipping and stumbling.
Since receiving their Solution saddle, Landmarks has been able to give very positive feedback on its use and have supplied case studies to help raise awareness of the benefits for other special needs groups.
Landmarks Case Studies: (Please note names have been changed in these case studies)
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Landmarks Case Study 1
Andrew, age 18 |
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Like many learners at the centre, Andrew suffers from a complex spectrum of learning difficulties including Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia and emotional/behavioural problems.
He is always on the go, finds it hard to settle, has a very short attention span and is very easily bored. Especially in a classroom situation, learning difficulties mean that he has always found it hard to concentrate. Emotionally, he can be very moody, and his mood fluctuates. He generally looks for trouble and gets himself into mischief as he is very easily led.
When he started Landmarks in September 2008, Andrew was terrified of horses. His first introduction to riding was on The Solution saddle, when he enjoyed it so much he did not want to dismount! |
He has found the saddle light and easy to handle. As it is so soft, he has not been worried about hurting the horse, and therefore he is confident the horse won’t try to hurt him. The saddle has allowed him to sit up in a balanced, comfortable position, with confidence, while walking round.
Andrew says it feels very comfortable, and he was therefore able to relax and think about his riding position.
Missy, one of our horses, has been clearly more calm and comfortable in The Solution saddle. Her old saddle slipped round quite badly, causing the learners to lose balance and make contact with her sides when they didn’t mean to. The mixed messages of the learner in the saddle prodding her on and the leader asking her to walk used to confuse her. Now the rider is much more secure and stable, she is able to listen to a single set of commands, her behaviour is naturally much calmer and the leaders feel more in control of her. |
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Landmarks Case Study 2
Kieran, age 17. |
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Kieran suffers from severe behavioural and social problems, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dyslexia and moderate learning difficulties. As a result of these disorders, he has a minute attention span and is very easily bored. He is unable to settle to activities and will abscond or just wander off. Kieran is very conscious of what he sees as his ‘failings’ and has no self confidence or self esteem. He also expresses a dislike and contempt for women.
Kieran has never had the confidence to attempt to get on a horse before, but he has been very interested in all the attention created by the new Solution saddle and was keen to ‘have a go on it’.
This positive attitude was quickly harnessed and Kieran was encouraged to get on Billy, the Landmarks cob. To everyone’s delight, Kieran absolutely loved it and said he felt very safe and secure in the saddle.
Over a period of years Landmarks have tried to find a saddle that fits Billy’s wide shoulders, but everything, including the learner on his back, has always slipped round. |
Billy the cob is now showing much freer movement in his shoulders as he is no longer constricted by an ill-fitting tree. He is clearly much more comfortable and relaxed in his work.
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Landmarks Case Study 3
Malcolm, age 18
Malcolm suffers from a spectrum of disorders including mild autism, muscle weakness leading to restricted mobility, epilepsy and mild learning difficulties. Greatly lacking in confidence, he is often unwilling to join in activities and can become very emotional and easily upset. Matthew has very little self confidence or self respect.
Matthew has never ridden, but is training for a City and Guilds NPTC Horse Care Award.
When he first came to Landmarks, he was too terrified of horses to attempt to get on, but has been enjoying his Horse Care course and has been gaining in confidence working around horses.
As part of his course, Malcolm has to saddle and bridle a horse, but he is physically very weak and was previously unable to lift the old saddle.
Because The Solution saddle is so light, Malcolm has been able to lift it without help and place it on the horse’s back.
This has given him a great sense of pride and real achievement as he is now able to do the same as everyone else in his group. He is so pleased with himself, he seems to have forgotten about his fear of being close to the horse. |
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Landmarks Case Study 4
Roderick, age 18
Roderick has a wide range of needs including mild autism, learning difficulties and social, emotional and behavioural problems.
Whilst he is physically able, he has a very limited concentration span, tending to be fidgety and hard to settle.
He mimics what he hears and struggles with anything other than very basic literacy and numeracy.
He is extremely argumentative and very easily upset. He complains about most things and can get involved in disrupting others.
Roderick has never before had the opportunity to sit on a horse but he was absolutely beaming after his first ride and couldn’t wait to do it again. |
The Solution saddle has enabled Roderick to sit confidently on Billy the cob. Initially, Roderick had no idea of balance and was literally all over the place, but the saddle stayed securely in place. With our previous saddle, I think he would have slipped over the side and been put off riding for ever.
Roderick was frequently off college, but has now said he won’t miss any more Horse Care sessions as he doesn’t want to miss another chance to ride.
Billy has also been amazing in this new saddle. The learners are all lacking in confidence and balance, but the saddle stays where it is meant to, allowing Billy to get on with his job of giving the learners experience, without the feeling of discomfort or panic because his rider is slipping off. |
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