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may twist himself more to one direction to eliminate the pain and discomfort created by pinching or pressure from the saddle. This can lead to asymmetric development of the back, neck, and/or haunches, given enough time.
It is a good idea to train a horse in the same exercises on both directions when working in the arena, and intermittently change posting diagonals and canter leads. Sprint horses are often ridden primarily in one direction when performing their tasks so conditioning time provides a good opportunity to help balance exercises on both sides of the body. In addition, learn to be a more balanced rider and continue to improve your riding skill level.
An underlying metabolic condition, like myositis (tying-up syndrome), can also lead to muscle asymmetry. A large muscle group like the gluteal or thigh muscles of the haunches may cramp and spasm to give it a swollen appearance relative to the normal muscles on the other side. This must be differentiated from a chronic, on-going medical issue. Myositis is a serious metabolic concern that is sometimes obvious at a glance, but at other times may be subtle enough that it needs to be identified based on many parameters as part of a thorough physical exam as well as blood tests for muscle enzyme levels. The metabolic status of the horse is evaluated
to determine degree of dehydration, heart rate recovery, gut sounds, muscle tone, and other signs of pain, such as might be displayed with muscle palpation. This problem is usually related to the exercise of the day rather than something that has been present for a long time.
A horse that has been kicked or suffered trauma or infection may have swelling and edema of the affected muscle group, yielding an asymmetrical appearance in the musculature.
VETERINARY VIEWS
A horse that is forced to tolerate a poorly fitting saddle may twist himself more to one direction to eliminate the pain and discomfort created by pinching or pressure from the saddle.
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