When Saddles Hurt: Understanding Wither, Sternal, and Rib Subluxation from Poor Saddle Fit

In the world of equine performance and wellness, saddle fit is one of the most overlooked yet critical elements in maintaining a horse’s musculoskeletal health. A poorly fitting saddle doesn't just cause superficial discomfort—it can lead to significant structural issues, including subluxations of the withers, sternum, and ribs. These misalignments can create a ripple effect of dysfunction that impacts movement, performance, and even behavior.

Let’s take a closer look at how these problems arise—and how to recognize and prevent them.

The Withers: A Sensitive Load-Bearing Area

The withers, located at the base of the neck where the cervical spine transitions into the thoracic region, serve as a key attachment site for muscles and ligaments. Ideally, the saddle should bridge the withers without pinching or collapsing downward onto them.

When a saddle is too narrow, it may press into the withers, causing bruising, inflammation, or subluxation of the T3–T8 vertebrae. Over time, this misalignment can interfere with the horse's ability to lift through the withers and engage the back—a prerequisite for proper collection and balanced movement.

Warning Signs:

• White hairs or hair loss at the withers

• Hollowing the back under saddle

• Resistance to grooming in the wither area

• Short, choppy strides in the front end

Sternal Subluxation: The Hidden Consequence

The sternum, or breastbone, serves as the anchor point for the ribs and supports the thoracic cage. A saddle that shifts forward or lacks proper girth placement can torque the sternum, particularly during turns, transitions, or mounting.

Sternal subluxation may not be obvious to the naked eye but can lead to abnormal loading of the ribcage and spinal column. Horses with a subluxated sternum may struggle with lateral flexion and show signs of overall body tension.

Warning Signs:

• Reluctance to move forward freely

• Girthiness or hypersensitivity when tacking up

• Uneven muscle development along the chest and sternum

• A “tight” or “braced” feel under saddle

Rib Subluxation: Lateral Restrictions and Discomfort

Improper saddle panel shape or excessive pressure from a tight girth can create focal stress along the ribcage, particularly around ribs 6–12. Over time, this pressure may result in rib subluxations—small shifts or misalignments in the costovertebral joints where the ribs meet the spine.

These misalignments restrict lateral bend and can make movements like leg yields, canter departs, or even normal breathing uncomfortable.

Warning Signs:

• Reactivity to palpation along the ribcage

• Difficulty bending in one direction

• Shying or resistance during lateral work

• "Flinching" when touched around the barrel

From Pressure to Problems: Functional Consequences

A horse is a master of compensation. A problem at the withers can change how the horse moves through the shoulders; a subluxated rib can lead to lumbar tension; an unstable sternum can affect breathing and core engagement. These aren’t isolated problems—they’re interconnected symptoms of a systemic issue.

Chiropractic assessment and care, combined with corrective saddle fitting, are essential tools for restoring comfort and promoting long-term performance.

What Can You Do?

• Check saddle fit regularly, especially as the horse changes condition or workload.

• Work with a qualified saddle fitter who understands anatomy and biomechanics.

• Listen to your horse. Behavioral changes often signal physical discomfort.

• Include regular chiropractic evaluations to identify and correct subluxations early.

Conclusion

Saddle fit isn't just a matter of rider comfort or aesthetics—it's a health issue. Understanding the impact of poor fit on the withers, sternum, and ribs helps us better advocate for our horses and preserve their longevity and soundness. If you're unsure whether your saddle is helping or hurting, seek guidance—and give your horse the comfort it deserves.