## Overview A saddle that restricts scapular rotation can compress the serratus ventralis, the muscle that helps suspend the trunk and allow free shoulder movement. This shortens the forelimb stride, causes muscle atrophy behind the shoulder, and makes the horse move better without the saddle. Stumbling and resistance to downward transitions may occur. ## Causes Poorly fitted saddle limiting scapular motion. ## Diagnosis Comparison of movement with and without the saddle, and evaluation of saddle fit. ## Treatment Refit or replace the saddle. Allow the muscle to recover with correct work. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good once saddle fit is corrected. ## Prevention Professional saddle fitting that allows free scapular rotation.
shortened forelimb stride; muscle atrophy behind the shoulder; moves better without saddle; resistance to downward transitions; stumbling
## Overview A saddle that restricts scapular rotation can compress the serratus ventralis, the muscle that helps suspend the trunk and allow free shoulder movement. This shortens the forelimb stride, causes muscle atrophy behind the shoulder, and makes the horse move better without the saddle. Stumbling and resistance to downward transitions may occur. ## Causes Poorly fitted saddle limiting scapular motion. ## Diagnosis Comparison of movement with and without the saddle, and evaluation of saddle fit. ## Treatment Refit or replace the saddle. Allow the muscle to recover with correct work. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good once saddle fit is corrected. ## Prevention Professional saddle fitting that allows free scapular rotation.
shortened forelimb stride; muscle atrophy behind the shoulder; moves better without saddle; resistance to downward transitions; stumbling