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Posted: 24th May 2013

Effectively measuring equine lameness
Research into flexion test techniques

A study has revealed that a wireless, inertial sensor-based system can be used to effectively measure equine lameness.

The system is a more accurate way to assess a horse's response to a flexion test than the evaluation of an observer, which can be subjective and inconsistent.

Traditionally, the flexion test involves applying a short period of pressure to the joints of a limb before re-examination and the observation of any change in gait.

Opinions have been divided in the past over the effectiveness of this technique, therefore a flexion test measurement system is hoped to bring some accuracy to the process.

The study into measuring equine lameness involved 17 healthy adult horses being fitted with sensors and trotting in a straight line.

Observed by orthopaedic surgeons based at the University of Glasgow's School of Veterinary Medicine, the sensors measured the vertical pelvic movement, as well as the average difference in minimum and maximum pelvic height, for both the left and right hind limb strides.

"The introduction of an objective approach to documenting lameness examination will not only help vets and trainers to investigate equine lameness more accurately," said Professor Jim Moore, North American editor of the Equine Veterinary Journal (EVJ).

"It will also serve as an unbiased method of communicating lameness examination findings among vets, trainers, farriers and other professionals."

The study has been published in Equine Veterinary Journal (EVJ), in partnership with the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP).

Image courtesy of the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA)



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