Poor saddle and girth fit are common causes of chronic back and thoracic pain in horses. Regular assessment and correct fitting prevent significant welfare harm.
A poorly fitting saddle or girth is a constant source of pain during every ridden session. Many horses suffer in silence or express discomfort through behaviors misread as naughtiness - refusing jumps, bucking, or pinning ears when girthed. These are pain communications deserving investigation, not correction. Regular saddle fitting by a qualified professional, appropriate girth material for each horse's conformation, and monitoring for early gall formation protect horses from chronic and acute musculoskeletal pain.