Thermographic Assessment of Saddles Used on Jumping Horses

In this study, 62 saddles used on 129 jump horses were evaluated. Data such as age, breed, gender, body score, competition level, changes in performance and reaction at saddling, resistance in performing exercises, and back pain were obtained from the horses. Years of use, number of horses and riders using the saddle, and riders’ level of experience were also registered. Before and after a training session, horses were subjected to thermography of their thoracolumbar region. Saddles were evaluated by thermography soon after their withdrawal from the animal after training. The image obtained identified the area of interaction between the saddle panels and the back of the horse, asymmetry between panels, and the possible presence of contact with the column. Each saddle was used on an average of 4.6 ± 3.7 horses. Asymmetry between panels was identified on 62.8% of saddles and central contact with the thoracolumbar column was found on 37.2% of the saddles. Heat points on the column and withers were found on 28.7% and 33.3% of the horses, respectively. The thermographic image of the thoracolumbar column after the training session was asymmetric on 55.8% of the animals. Only the panels of 51.2% of the saddles had an interaction of 76% to 100% with the back of the horse. At rest, 39.5% had a heat point compatible with a pressure area from the saddle. Thermography proved to be a useful tool in evaluating the adjustment and position of saddles used on jumpers.