PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) Practice Test 2025 - Free Therapeutic Riding Instructor Practice Questions and Study Guide

Horses with narrow chests and knock-kneed conformation are more likely to be predisposed to certain injuries due to their structural alignment and the way their limbs are positioned. Narrow chests can indicate a restricted range of motion and less stability, which can affect the horse's ability to absorb shock and maintain proper balance during various activities, particularly when engaging in jumps or quick movements.

Knock-knees, or genu valgum, create an inward angle of the knees, leading to uneven weight distribution across the legs. This misalignment can result in excessive stress on certain joints, ligaments, and tendons, making the horse more susceptible to injuries such as strains or arthritis over time.

This particular conformation contrasts with well-balanced horses, wide-chested horses, or those described as stocky and strong, which typically possess good structural integrity, better balance, and a more effective shock-absorbing ability in their legs, reducing the likelihood of injury.