title: Tack and saddle fit.
abstract: Examining the fit of the saddle is perhaps the most important aspect of examining a horse with a suspected back problem. If the back problem is corrected and a poorly fitting saddle is placed on the back, the problems will return. An ill-fitting saddle contributes to direct and compensatory lower leg lameness making it even more imperative to correct the fit. A correctly fitting saddle enhances both the horse and rider's ability to perform with accuracy, lightness, and freedom of movement.
authors.affiliation: Harmany Equine Clinic, Washington, Virginia, USA.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Harman
mesh_terms: D000822:Animal Husbandry / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D000818:Animals; D001416:Back Pain / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000662:veterinary*; D006734:Horse Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006736:Horses; D011187:Posture