We are in the early stages of developing a research proposal for submission to the Scoliosis Support & Research (SSR) Research Grants Programme.

The proposed study aims to investigate the relationship between scoliosis, rider biomechanics and weight distribution on the horse, with the longer-term goal of improving understanding of horse–rider interaction and informing future assessment and rehabilitation strategies.

We are currently bringing together a multidisciplinary team and would welcome expressions of interest from ACPEA members who may be interested in contributing to the development of the project.

In particular, we would be keen to hear from physiotherapists with experience or expertise in:

• Clinical management of scoliosis

• Rider biomechanics and equestrian performance

• Research design and methodology

• Grant writing

• Statistics and data analysis

• Academic or university research collaborations

To strengthen the proposed research we would welcome collaboration with a university research department to provide support with research governance, ethics and grant development. If you have experience of working within a university setting or would be interested in exploring a collaborative role, we would be delighted to hear from you.

This is an exciting opportunity to develop a clinically relevant research project within equine assisted physiotherapy, and we would welcome anyone who feels they could contribute their expertise during the planning and application stages.