Practical use of computerized saddle pressure measuring device to determine the effects of saddle pads on the horses's back

Currently the saddle industry has no system to aid in fitting saddles or to help with manufacturing, design or quality control. Saddles are sold with little consideration of fit andeven less knowledge about the consequences of poor fit. Manufacturing defects abound, many of which are detrimental to the horse. A computerized saddle pressure measuring device a has become available which will bring science and technology to this industry. This piece of equipment can measure pressures exerted on the horse' s back by the weightbearing saddle and give a multiple color scan similar in appearance to a thermogram. Saddles are the necessary evil of the competition horse. A saddle is a rigid structure that connects the dynamic structures of the horse with the rider. The fit and position of the saddle affect the movement of the horse and the ability of the rider to communicate his/her wishes to the horse. Soft tissue pain created by saddles contributes significantly to the poor-performance syndrome, as well as many of the behavior