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Saddle pressure measuring: validity, reliability and power to discriminate between different saddle-fits
P de Cocq1, P R van Weeren, W Back
1Department of Equine Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 12, NL-3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Veterinary Journal (London, England : 1997)
|July 15, 2005
Summary
Saddle pressure measurement devices show validity but limited reliability for assessing equine saddle fit. Their use in practice is questioned, suggesting a need for technical improvements for accurate quantitative assessment.
Area of Science:
- Equine Biomechanics
- Veterinary Technology
Background:
- Saddle fit is crucial for preventing back problems in horses.
- Pressure measurement devices are used empirically to evaluate saddle fit.
- Limited data exists on the validity, reliability, and usability of these devices in equine contexts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically assess a specific pressure measurement system for equine saddle fit evaluation.
- To determine the validity, reliability, and discriminative power of the device.
Main Methods:
- Correlated total measured pressure with rider weight (n=28) for validity.
- Used a standardized setup to evaluate reliability and discriminative power across different saddle fitting methods.
- Quantified saddle fit using air pressure values within saddle panels.
Main Results:
- Total saddle pressure correlated well with rider weight.
- High over-day sensor variation was observed.
- Within-trial reliability (ICC) was excellent, but between-trial reliability varied significantly.
- The device detected pressure differences in the rear but not front saddle areas when fit was adjusted for horse asymmetry.
Conclusions:
- The pressure measurement device demonstrated validity but limited reliability under non-standardized conditions.
- Results question the widespread, quantitative use of current devices for saddle fit assessment in practical settings.
- Further technical advancements are needed to improve device reliability and usability for equine saddle fit evaluation.