Validity of saddle pressure measurements using force-sensing array technology - Preliminary studies

Back pain is a common and poorly understood clinical problem. An important factor in this regard is the induction or exacerbation of back pain from ba dly designed or poorly fitting saddles. This study used a pressure-sensing mat to investigate saddle fit. The aims of the study were to confirm the ac curacy and reliability of the force-sensing array technology when used to m easure pressure beneath the saddles of horses, and to collect some initial data from normal healthy horses with well-fitting saddles. Experiments were undertaken to establish that a linear relationship existed between the tot al force (weight) exerted and the pressure measured beneath the saddle, usi ng both a wooden horse and a live horse in the standing position. Further s tudies were performed to demonstrate that characteristic changes of the cen tre of pressure occur while horses move at the walk, sitting trot, rising t rot, and canter. (C) 1999 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.