Some common signs of discomfort
Dislike of being groomed / tacked up
​Preferring one rein
Reluctant to canter on one lead, Hollow backed
High headed, Bucking
Lateral stiffness, Lack of poll flexion and bend
Head tilting, Uneven stride length
Holding the tail to one side
Excessive rolling, Toe dragging
Enlarged muscles due to tension
Tension from general day to day activities

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It is important to consider all possible causes and effects of tension, so tension from general day to day activities or problems as a result of conformation, rider imbalance, teeth, poor foot balance, slips / falls / becoming cast in the stable, old injuries, over or repetitive training, introduction of next level of training can all have an effect on performance.
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