Hi All,
Welcome to topic 6 for 624EHS - Contemporary Issues in Equine Science.
This topic is all about the use of training aids. Make sure that you look at the launch PowerPoint, which has been posted in the Classroom, if you were unable to attend the lecture. You are required to contribute to this blog as part of your CW3 assessment. All students have from now until 3 pm on Monday 25th of April 2022 to contribute to this blog, to debate the issues surrounding the use of training aids within the equine sector. Ensure you can also evidence your opinions and remember that you are also required to submit a reference list (word document emailed to module leader) by 3 pm on Monday 25th of April 2022. You will be graded on the quality and quantity of both your blog contributions and your reference list. Remember, the point of this is to debate the issues, so you should be replying to each other's posts. I will be keeping an eye on the blog, but if you have any issues, you should email me. Please remember to register your name with your comments so that I know who has contributed with which comment.
Rosa
Training aids, have been common when implementing equine training programmes and is established with professional, amateur and recreational riders and horse owners. Despite this it is important to consider that claims from branded training aids and manufactuerers that aid to promote equine muscle development, gait and biomechanics have limited scientific research to support claims. Due to this owners and other equine individuals have limited access to information about training aids which could implement an owners decision in regards to which would be the most effective for the animal (Williams, 2020)
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A popular training aid, which is implemented by both trainers and therapist is the EquiAmi ™ (ETA). Calzone et al., (2022) investigated the benefits of EquiAmi ™ on limb kinematics in walk and trot, the results demonstrated that ETA had no significant effect on group mean kinematics in walk and trot; individual horse responses to ETA were variable and depend on the horses gait. This indicates that practitioners should observe the horses response to the ETA, and that when selecting a training aid it is important to judge the effects of training aids on the individual horses and devise suitable training programmes around these aspects and adapt an appropriate training/ rehabilitation programme.
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KAYA: Although Calzone et al 2022 found the EquiAmi ™ (ETA) to have no significant effect on group mean kinematics in walk and trot, it ought to be remembered that only 8 horses were used in the study, all declared healthy, in moderate work at least 4 days per week and aged between 6-13. Additionally, horses were only included if they had worked in the ETA at least three times before the start of data collection to ensure they were acclimated to the equipment. The age, health status and acclimatisation to the training aid may have affected results of the study. This experiment only tested the ability of ETA as a training tool thus results should only be considered appropriate for comparison to those in training, not for horses using ETA for therapeutic reasons. Thus Calzones et als 2022 study cannot be applied to ETA use as a therapeutic tool. Additionally, had the subject size been larger and age and condition of subjects been more varied, results may have been different. For example, patterns may have emerged in different age groups or even different fitness levels.
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ReplyDeleteResearch currently has focused on the effects of training aids on the head, limb and spinal kinematic (including stride length and speed). When implemented in training programmes, aids are selected with a view to achieving particular responses depending on where the training aid is meant to act. For example, the Pessoa training aid comprises of loop which attaches to a lunging surcingle, running behind the hind quarters and attaches to bit (it reduces trotting speed, stride length, head angle, lumbosacral extension and longissimus dorsi activity in trot) (Walker et al., 2013). The Equiband System, is a band which goes under the trunk, reduces roll, pitch and mediolateral displacement in the thoracular region in trot (Pfau et al., 2017) Moreover, side reins attach from the lunging surcingle to the bit, alter the head and neck position of the horses, affecting limb kinematics and ground reaction forces but the differences noticed are heavily affected by the horses head neck position adopted by the horse (Waldern et al., 2009). However, it is important to consider that these papers are supporting and researching braided training therefore some bias could potentially be evident affecting validity.
Jasmine Pook
As Jas has mentioned, the Pessoa is one of the most popular aids with multiple options and capabilities, used for both training and rehabilitation. Walker, Dyson, and Murray 2013 found that Pessoa training aids have an effect on whole horse locomotion, where a reduction in speed, stride length, head angle, and lumbosacral angle (at maximal hind limb protraction) were reported. Although differences were reported, no increase in the loading of forelimb and hind limb structures was found. Resistance created by the positioning of elastic resistance bands around the horse's hindquarters and abdominals has received scientific attention where Pfau et al 2017 found that increased stability of the vertebral column was achieved.
DeleteDebating the effectiveness of training aids is without doubt important. So many different disciplines now demand their use when training for the top levels of competition, not to mention their capabilities as tools of rehabilitation. Training aids generally require a training roller to attach them to the horse. Hence, it could be argued that investigating the roller may be a more prudent place to start. This is exactly what Mackechnie-Guire et al 2018 set out to do. Mackechnie-Guire et al 2018 measured pressures beneath a training roller when lunging with and without a Pessoa. 10 nonlame horses were lunged in both trot and canter, on left and right reins in a 16-m circle wearing a roller on top of a high withered dressage square and wool pad. A pressure mat was positioned transversely over the spine covering thoracic vertebrae 10 to 15. Both trot and canter consistently saw high pressure readings over the spinous processes. Especially at thoracic vertebrae 11 and 12 beneath the training roller. These readings were high enough to suggest pain and discomfort. Pressures were consistent between horses, however no significant differences were found in any IMU outcome parameters (Mackechnie-Guire et al 2018). Although results of this experiment may not have been ideal, it does shine light on the lack of awareness and knowledge surrounding the increased local spinal pressure a training roller exerts on the back. This is especially problematic in horses undergoing rehabilitation of back problems by using such aids. More importantly, this study reinforces the need to ensure training rollers are fitted with clearance of the spinous process.
DeleteAs kaya previously mentioned
ReplyDeleteOptimal use of training aids should be based on the effects on both limb and back kinematics. The word Aid suggests that the devices can be used as interventions to improve the training of the horse. For example in dressage, quality of pace, balance, hind quarter engagement and collection ae down to judge’s opinions (Internationale, F.E., 2020). Quality of the horses gait can be identified at an early age and higher marks are awarded to horses who display greater fore and hindlimb stance and swing duration, forelimb maximal retraction and hind limb maximal protraction, which indicate strength and balance (Barrey et al., 2002). Although gait quality may be inherited, the horse may improve strength, balance and collection through training and training aids, however, conformation and natural ability is crucial (Clayton and Hobbs, 2019). Jasmine Pook
KAYA: As Jaz has mentioned, optimal use of training aids is often solely based on the effects said training aid has on limb and back kinematics. However, upper regions of the head and neck should not be ignored, neither should lower regions of the limbs such as fetlocks and hooves. The regulation of head and neck position during physical exercise may be obtained using lunging aids (LAs): Chambon (CH), rubber band (RB), or triangle side reins (TR). Masko et al 2020 set out to evaluate the pattern of superficial temperatures (PST) of hoof wall (HW), the coronary band (CB), and the dorsal aspect of the fetlock joint (FJ) obtained before and after lunging with LAs and freely moving heads (FMH). Masko et al 2020 used infrared images of 16 horses, measuring the temperatures of HW, CB, and FJ and evaluating the differences between the before and after lunging images. Before lunging PST was similar in FMH, CH, RB, and TR, with the strong positive correlations for forelimbs and hindlimbs. After lunging, PST and correlations changed depending on LAs application. The PST of the distal portion of limbs and relations between measured temperatures change depending on used LAs.
DeleteKAYA: Masko et als 2020 study highlights the importance of trainers, or anyone using such aids to have a full understanding of how and when LAs change the type and bearing of the load upon all limbs. For example, Masko et al 2020 found that the rubber band (RB) enables a more even load on all four limbs, whereas the triangle side reins (TR) enable a higher load of hindlimbs. LAs also affect the thermograms of limbs, changes in the pattern of the superficial temperature of the hoof depend on the lunging aid used. Lastly, all those in possession of or using LAs ought to be aware the effect these training aids have on all parts of the horses body, not just limbs and back.
DeleteKAYA: To further add to Masko et als 2020 point about head and neck positions (HNP), according to Bornmann et al 2020, recent high profile examples of extreme HNP within training and competition have increased the debate of how horses’ HNPs influence their welfare. This combined with advances in technology has seen the scientific community exploring the impact of different HNPs on equine biomechanics, muscle activity, and equine stress responses. This research has identified physiological and behavioural signs of distress in horses ridden for prolonged time in an HNPs with their nose line behind the vertical (BTV), which may compromise their welfare (Zebisch et al 2014). Due to the many studies indicating HNPs association with compromised welfare, there is growing evidence of disapproval of the hyperflexion training in the equestrian community (Heuschmann 2015).
DeleteKAYA: This is all relevant to training aids, because hyperflexion of the head and neck in ridden horses often represents a trained reaction to a painful stimulus caused by aggressive training aids, often some form of and harsh rein aids. Strong rein contact can prompt horses to evade bit pressure and, ultimately, pain by maintaining a hyperflexed HNP. In the worst case, this training approach can force the animal to learn that it can only avoid pain by overbending its head and neck. König von Borstel et al 2015 concluded in their a meta-analysis on the effect of HNP on welfare and other physiological parameters, such as kinematics, that only one of 55 scholarly articles focusing on HNP indicated positive effects of hyperflexion on horses.
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ReplyDeleteMackechnie-Guire et al., (2018) investigated the effects of a training roller on back pressure with both a pessoa and without. Ground schooling such as lunging is effective in rehabilitation programmes and training, training aids such as pessoas or side reins can be attached to these rollers. High pressure was found at the thoracic vertebrae 11 and 12 beneath a training rollers and the high pressure was also found under the roller when a training aid was applied implying that when fitting a roller, there should be clearance of the spinous processes, However a large number of training aids require the use of a roller to enable them to be attached, so when selecting a suitable training aid for the horse it would be beneficial to consider other pressures and effects o0n the horse which could potentially hinder or limit rehabilitation or training progress.
Jasmine Pook
The comment above is replying to kayas one with the same paper
DeletePerhaps an overlooked training aid is the use of boots and their benefits and dangers. The use of different boots is especially common in the showjumping industry, and is often used in combination with schooling exercise to improve and control jump stride kinematics. These include utilistising plyometrics and grids of various heights widths at specific distances, while techniques like rapping, once routinely used, have gone out of fashion. However, the use of performance enhancing boots on the distal hind limb have become popular (I.e. weighted or pressure). Weighted boots are used during training and sometimes competition to improve jump stride and clearance, whereas, pressure boots aid in this aswll. The boots appear to induce hyperflexion and allow the horse to jump cleanly. However, there is limited research to support the benefits of using boots, nor is there research determining contraindications.
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KAYA: Jaz makes a superb point about training aid boots, but their abilities go far beyond training. Boots have also been shown to have huge benefits in rehabilitation as well. Jensen, et al 2018 proposed that manipulation of the equine distal limb as part of a rehabilitation process in cases of musculoskeletal pain or neurologic deficits can be used to correct postural control and restore normal motor programs. To test this, Jensen et al 2018 tested the effects of light-weight and loose-fitting bell boots (82 g). Eight horses were trained over a 60-minute period every 3 days for 6 weeks, a protocol based on preliminary findings, using light-weight bell boots every 3 days for a period of 6 weeks was adopted. Walking, trotting, and cantering during a left-hand circle at the start of the trial revealed a slight but significant asymmetry between the left and right hind limb muscle, which improved successfully after 6 weeks. Data for the right-hand circle revealed no significant asymmetry during walk, trot, or canter at the start of the experiment, and showed no change after 6 weeks of training at the walk and trot but developed an imbalance during cantering, the result of overcompensation. This study demonstrates an association between the program of proprioceptive training adopted and an improvement in muscular imbalance.
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DeleteKAYA: This research is extremely important because lameness is a primary cause of euthanasia in the equine industry, with both the diagnosis and treatment of of lamesness injuries being time consuming and expensive (Jensen et al 2018). Studies suggest that compensation and redistribution of weight, due to pain or tension, can cause repetitive strain injuries, as the additional load overstresses ligaments, muscles, and bones throughout the body (Greve and Dyson 2013). To reduce this risk, it is considered beneficial to avoid the progression of muscular imbalance to help avoid a compensatory injury and the resulting lameness (Turner 2017).
To elaborate further on my previous comment, research has been conducted in regards to temperature changes on skin and tendons, with boots. Brock and Spooner, (2021) investigated 28 different leg wraps/ boots on leg surface temperature during and after exercise. Boots and leg wraps are commonly implemented to protect the lower limb and aid performance when exercising. Research suggests that use can cause increased temperature, which can be detrimental to the tendons underneath. Brock and Spooner (2021) explored skin surface temperature during exercise and hypothesised that boots and wraps would increase temperature over the bare limb during exercise. Six sound horses were used to test 6 boots or wraps: neoprene boot, perforated neoprene boot, an alternative neoprene boot, a cross country boot and a combination fleece, elastic wrap and polo wrap. The results indicated that convection cooling is restricted by boots and wraps during exercise. Skin temperature of the lower leg is correlated with underlying tendon temperature, demonstrating that even moderate exercise can cause the leg temperature to reach damaging levels when wearing boots or wraps. Further research is needed to determine into the time needed for passive cooling of the equine limb after exercise and verification of strategies to reduce cooling time.
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The rising number of behavioural problems amongst the UK leisure horse population has implications for horse welfare and rider safety. Thus Hockenhull and Creighton 2012 set out to identify risk factors associated with ridden behaviour problems in UK horses. The survey asked owners to report the frequency their horses displayed fifteen ridden behaviour problems over the previous week. Behaviour data was generated for 791 individual horses. Risk factors associated with the ridden behaviour problems emerged as three main themes; First was saddle fit and design with dressage and working hunter saddles associated with a reduced risk of ridden behaviour problems compared to general purpose saddles. Secondly was the horse’s footcare and shoeing regime. Third, was taking an outcome-centred approach to training. This third theme saw the misuse of artificial training aids associated with an increased behavioural problems. Additionally, spending more time with the horse outside of training situations and using a more horse-centred approach, was associated with a reduced risk of problems. A huge strength of this study was that the frequency of behaviour data in four components of related ridden behaviour problems were explored in association with external details of the horse’s working life, which not many researchers always account for. This included the type of tack, equipment and training aids used, and the frequency the professional services of saddlers and farriers were employed using logistic regression analyses. Training aids such as draw reins or a Pessoa Training Aid, appropriately used may improve hind limb propulsion. However, there are still wide gaps in our knowledge about strategies to minimise the risks of injuries to the ridden horse, and a need for further research making use of technological advances in the fields of equine biomechanics with the results applied in equitation science (Dyson 2017).
ReplyDeleteKillian et al., (2018) compared different training methods for neck flexion in low level trained warmbloods (draw reins and concord leader) to obtain a standardised head and neck position at a walk on hard and soft surfaces. The results demonstrated that tension was lower with draw reins than with the Concord leader. The rein tension (mean sum of the force applied in N) was higher with the draw reins than the concord leader. However, it would be important to consider that the study was performed with horses being exercised in hand, whereas, these training aids are normally used when lunging and any possible redirection of rein tension towards the poll was not measured. The research indicated that rein tension needs further investigation in regards to training aids and how this affects the horse or training.
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