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Effects of the curvature of the lumbar spine on the posture of male and female horse riders: a biomechanical analysis (919.15)
Author(s) -
Osborn Michelle,
Cornille Jean Luc,
Uhl Elizabeth
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.28.1_supplement.919.15
Subject(s) - lumbar , pelvis , anatomy , medicine , lumbar vertebrae , low back pain , physical medicine and rehabilitation , spinal curvatures , alternative medicine , pathology
Classical equitation currently has a strong female following, but historically was a male endeavor. Thus, ideas about riding postures are based on traditions established by and for men. Previous research on the anatomic differences between the sexes and how they affect riding has primarily focused on the pelvis. Recently, sexual dimorphism in the shapes of the lumbar vertebrae that result in a deeper curvature of the lumbar region of the female spine was identified. We hypothesized that, due to this increased curvature, the vertical force from the horse would impact the lumbar spine of the female differently from that of the male, and could explain the higher incidence of lower back pain reported in female riders. We tested our hypothesis with the method of free‐body diagram force analysis. Based on the initial assumption of bilateral symmetry in the rider and horse, our analysis reveals that in males with a classical riding posture the vertical force from the horse is directed toward the bodies of the lumbar vertebrae and intervertebral discs. In women this force is directed more posteriorly toward the spinous processes, an area not as well‐suited for force distribution. A better understanding of the functional consequences associated with the anatomical differences between the sexes allows riders and trainers to adapt their technique and thus decrease pain and tissue injury.