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Indian Creek Equine Rehabilitation Center
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The Importance of Symmetry and Balance of the Pelvis in the Dressage Horse and Rider
Location and Date:
Presented by: Suzan Franz, Physiotherapist
The Seat serves as the dynamic foundation of communication between the horse and rider. When symmetrical alignment is not present in
either horse or rider, a resulting “mirrored dysfunction” will occur.
IN THE RIDER: Pelvic imbalance and the common rotations:
Posterior - increases seat bone contact,
Anterior - decreases seat bone contact
Results:
1) twist in the spine, (torsion of torso)
2) Collapse of shoulder girdle
3) Asymmetrical motion in horse
4) General weakening of position
Causes:
Past injuries, scoliosis, poor body mechanics,Improperly trained muscles, imbalance in horse
Remedy: Proper lengthening and strengthening of torso and Pelvic girdle through exercise
Excercises:
Pelvic:
Stretches - Hamstring, Hip Flexors, and Quadriceps
Shoulder Girdle: Wall Presses, Reverse Flies
Core Muscle Strengthening:
Roller bar, Bounce ball
Abdominal Strengthening & Stretching
NOTE: Some individuals may need a chiropractic evaluation
for effective correction
IN THE HORSE:
THE DYNAMICS OF PELVIC ROTATION AND IMBALANCE
Results:
1) Difficulty with lead changes, rough canter
2) Shortened hind stride on posterior side
3) Hollowing of the back
4) Lack of impulsion and lightness
5) Rider’s pelvic alignment is compromised
Causes:
1) Past injury, falls, pregnancy
2) Poor saddle fit
3) Dental issues
4) Poor training techniques
5) Pelvic imbalance in the rider
6) Imbalanced shoeing
Remedy:
1) Evaluate horses condition – see note
2) Evaluate saddle fit
3) Dentistry check
4) Corrective shoeing
5) Evaluate training
6) Evaluate rider’s pelvic position/balance
NOTE: The following physical signs can be observed in a horse with pelvic rotation:
1) Muscles of longissimus and paraspinals contract and cause spine to hollow
2) Abdominals become weak
3) Compensatory muscles become overworked
4) Unevenness of hip lines as observed from behind
Treating these issues can involve:
Massage – stress point, deep tissue, acupressure
Therapeutic Exercise
Modalities: Ultrasound, Photon, Magnetics
Chiropractic
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