Effect of taping on postural characteristics of horse riders

Dressage riders aim to be harmonious with a horses motion to improve communication with the horse and have optimum performance. This article aims to observe postural characteristics of female dressage riders, through application of 3-D motion analysis and to assess the effects of athletic taping on postural asymmetry during sitting trot.

This was investigated in 10 healthy female dressage riders by analysing their 3-D movement kinematics of trunk and pelvis with and without tape. The method of tape application was a combination of Watson's strap technique and scapular retraction technique to give a stabilizing effect.

The results showed asymmetries in all riders pre-taping. A combination of trunk flexion, dominant side trunk lateral flexion coupled with trunk rotation appeared to be a common asymmetry which occurred pre-tape intervention. With tape, the only significant change is seen in the average range of trunk lateral flexion, increasing from 2.4 degrees without tape to 3 degrees with tape. This can be explained since the increased stability of the shoulders due to the tape, as well as the probable proprioceptive effects of the tape resulted in an increased compensatory movement in the lumbar region. This means the lateral swing of the trot must be absorbed by the rider's pelvis, core and lumbar regions leading to greater lateral flexion.

> From: Alexander et al., Phys Ther Sport 16 (2017) 154–161. All rights reserved to Elsevier Ltd. Click here for the online summary.