[From the October 2011 Sho Times: Stacey Brown is a contributing writer to the Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]
Once the rider learns to activate the core, what more can the rider consider when trying to improve equestrian performance? In previous columns we have identified that the muscles of the core exist to stabilize the shape of the spine, creating a stable center from which to operate the extremities. What we have not yet discussed, is the fact that the shape of the spine needs to change at times. For example the shape of the spine must change to accommodate the forces which move the surface that, (in the case of riders) we are sitting upon. This is how we keep the center of gravity (COG) over the base of support (BOS) for balance, so we don’t fall. The separation of the upper trunk (chest and shoulders) from the pelvis, necessary for righting reactions, begins with the lateral shift of spinal segments. The upper trunk moves to the right, as the lower trunk moves to the left, in order to keep the center of gravity where we need it to be, for balance. For some of these basic balance moves, the postural muscles such as the obliques, the psoas, and the quadratus lumborum are called into play.
In the case of dressage these movements are desired to be minimal, and timed precisely. This is also true of what we want from the horse. The goal is to coordinate the balance responses of the horse and rider so perfectly, that it looks effortless. Impossible to see where the rider leaves off and the horse begins. If you picture a barrel racer or polo player, you will see balance responses on the other end of the continuum. Still, the same biomechanics are involved.
So how do you get to this desired level of stability? Not with rigidity. The rigid trunk, does not prepare you for loss of balance. Always a possibility when riding a large, adrenalin driven animal. It also does not absorb shock efficiently, resulting in probability of joint injury (for horse as well as rider). A rigid trunk results from over use of superficial (movement oriented) muscle instead of the appropriate use of the core, and postural muscles.
Often the overuse of the superficial muscle is required to compensate for the asymmetry of the rider that results from a lifetime of right or left hand dominance, injuries, habitual activities, and sustained postures associated with them. In this case, the postural muscles such as the psoas, obliques etc. become shortened on one side of the body with respect to the other. The muscle make-up can actually change over time, to resemble a fibrous ligament rather than an elastic muscle. These adaptations can also cause changes in the joint structures, so that the range of motion is limited. In this way, overuse syndromes develop and performance is negatively impacted. If the superficial movement muscles are being utilized for postural stabilization, they are not in correct position to assist the functions of rein tension through the arms and hands, leg aids, or even weight shifts from seat bone to seat bone. The horse is left to interpret rider intention at best, and at worst, must use himself incorrectly in order to keep the horse /rider unit balanced.
When there is restriction in range of motion, and there is inappropriate use of muscle, balance responses as described in the beginning of this article are impaired. Rigidity is the end result. Not only does rigidity negatively impact success of performance, it is unsafe. As long as the movement of the horse is in the expected direction, rigidity may suffice in function. But if the direction changes suddenly, as in the horse the spooks or trips, the result can be disastrous.
Assessment of rider postural symmetry, correct use of core, joint ROM, muscle balance, and movement patterns, can be performed by a physical therapist familiar with equestrian sport. Through physical examination of the rider both mounted and individually, a treatment plan to correct specific postural faults, muscle imbalances, and movement pattern inefficiencies can be prescribed. Often, these issues are so long established, that it is difficult for the rider to see them objectively. The nervous system has a way of accommodating, in order to keep us functioning, and eventually the most abnormal movement and positions, begin to appear normal to us. Trying to correct individual joint positions, without getting the sitting posture corrected, is enough to frustrate the most dedicated riders, and the most highly acclaimed trainers. The assistance of a qualified physical therapist can make it easier for the rider and the trainer to accomplish goals more quickly, and identify the factors that are holding up progress.
If you would like to schedule treatment, have questions, or suggestions for future informational columns, please contact Stacey at: info@animalrehabinstitute.com or (971) 226-0010 mobile. You will find directions to her clinic on the web site www.AnimalRehabInstitute.com.
Stacey Brown PT CERT received her degree in physical therapy from Pacific University and is a native of Portland Oregon, where she practiced human physical therapy for 30 years, and equine rehabilitation for 7 years. She has a strong background in both neurologic and orthopedic treatment, and combines her experience in a unique and effective approach. Stacey now practices in the Wellington, FL area, and specializes in the assessment and treatment of equestrian athletes. She is an athlete, rides herself, and has a life long interest in nutrition and wellness. Through movement analysis and physical evaluation, Stacey designs individual treatment programs to enhance performance, as well as treat injuries. She is skilled in muscle balancing techniques, myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and uses a cold laser to speed healing and enhance nuero-motor retraining. She is also certified in equine rehabilitation, and uses her skills to improve the performance of horse and rider pairs.
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