The foot–surface interaction and its impact on musculoskeletal adaptation and injury risk in the horse

Abstract

The equine limb has evolved for efficient locomotion and high-speed performance, with adaptations of bone, tendon and muscle. However, the system lacks the ability seen in some species to dynamically adapt to different circumstances. The mechanical interaction of the limb and the ground is influenced by internal and external factors including fore-hind mass distribution, lead limb, moving on a curve, shoeing and surface properties. It is unclear which of the components of limb loading have the largest effect on injury and performance but peak load, impact and vibration all play a role. Factors related to the foot-ground interface that limit performance are poorly understood. Peak performance varies vastly between disciplines but at high speeds such as racing and polo, force and grip are key limits to performance.

The locomotor kinematics and ground reaction forces of walking giraffes

“…We have considered the presence of substrate as an unlikely explanation for this result. Compliant substrates are associated with dampening of the initial impact GRF, not peak mid-stance vertical force, when compared with firm substrate (Parkes and Witte, 2015). This relationship may explain the lack of an impact peak in the observed GRFs.…”

Change in Force on the Superficial Digital Flexor Tendon due to Fatigue in Thoroughbred Horses

“…properties. The ability of the horse to adapt to such changes may have implications for injury prevention [1].…”

“…However, there is little information regarding fatigue-induced changes in force on the muscle tendons and the suspensory ligament (SL).Objectives: To evaluate the fatigue-induced changes in force on the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT), the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT), and SL.Study design: Intervention study.Methods: Ten healthy Thoroughbred horses were used (body mass, 460-549 kg, age, 4-9 years) for the experiment. The forces in SDFT, DDFT, and SL during trotting before and after standardised treadmill exercise protocols until fatigue were measured using a previously reported model [1]. The effect of fatigue on the forces in these tendons and ligament was compared using a paired t-test.Reasons for performing study: Athlete guided assessments of equestrian arena surfaces can help provide information on the perceived importance of surface functional properties.Objectives: To investigate how rider-assessed overall rating of showjumping competition and warm-up arenas relate to subjective perception and objective measurements of specific functional properties of the arenas.Study design: Observational.…”

“…Methods: Ten healthy Thoroughbred horses were used (body mass, 460-549 kg, age, 4-9 years) for the experiment. The forces in SDFT, DDFT, and SL during trotting before and after standardised treadmill exercise protocols until fatigue were measured using a previously reported model [1]. The effect of fatigue on the forces in these tendons and ligament was compared using a paired t-test.…”

Evidence‐based farriery – does it exist?

“…Recent farriery biomechanics research has focused on the interaction between the hoof and the ground surface on the basis that this interaction is contributing to load distribution, shock absorption, injury risk and performance . Often, it is the surface that has the greatest influence on the foot–surface interaction, which is complicated even more by the fact that surface properties are not only determined by composition and construction but are also affected by weather conditions and preparation.…”