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Home / Equine Research Bank / Open Vet J / Correlations between the equine metacarpophalangeal joint an...
Open veterinary journal2018; 8(1); 96-103; doi: 10.4314/ovj.v8i1.15

Correlations between the equine metacarpophalangeal joint angulation and toe conformation in statics.

Abstract: The angulation of the equine fetlock determines the load of associated tendons and probably their predisposition for injuries. However, it is questionable how the individual toe conformation and tendon properties interact with the dorsal metacarpophalangeal joint angle (DMPJ). Data are needed for a tangible evaluation of the equine limb conformation for more specific orthopaedic treatment. The aim was to evaluate the correlation between the DMPJ, toe conformation and cross-sectional area (CSA) of both flexor tendons; the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT). Thirty Warmblood horses were available for the study. Lateromedial radiographs of the toe and fetlock and transverse ultrasound images of both flexor tendons were obtained from three zones. The DMPJ, length and angle of the phalanges and CSA SDFT/DDFT were measured. In addition, hoof angle, wither height, age, and sex were documented. Correlations were calculated using Pearson's test. A paired t-test was used to evaluate left-right differences. Length and angle of the proximal and middle phalanx were significantly associated with the DMPJ (r = -0.28 - -0.45, p<0.001-0.04). Neither the angle of the hoof and distal phalanx nor the CSA SDFT/DDFT, showed a noticeable correlation with the DMPJ. Significant left-right differences occurred for the DMPJ (p<0.002) and the angle of the proximal and middle phalanx (p<0.01 - 0.002). A moderate negative correlation was shown between the DMPJ and wither height (r = - 0.31, p=0.04). Results represent only a specific population. The study provides only a static evaluation of a dynamic situation. In a clinical context, it might be useful to focus on the angulation and length of the pastern to evaluate the individual load affecting the DMPJ and its associated structures. These findings might be relevant for orthopaedic treatments and shoeing recommendations.
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Publication Date: 2018-03-22 PubMed ID: 29721438PubMed Central: PMC5918130DOI: 10.4314/ovj.v8i1.15Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

The study investigates the relationship between the angulation of horses’ leg joint, their toe conformation, and the cross-sectional area of their flexor tendons, providing potential insights for orthopedic treatments and shoeing recommendations.

Study Overview

  • This research focuses on the angulation of the equine metacarpophalangeal joint or the fetlock and how it interacts with the horse’s individual toe conformation and tendon properties. Specifically, the researchers look at the dorsal metacarpophalangeal joint angle (DMPJ), toe conformation, and the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT).
  • Understanding these interactions is considered crucial to provide a more precise evaluation of a horse’s limb conformation to determine special orthopaedic treatments. The fetlock is known to influence the load on associated tendons, potentially impacting their susceptibility to injuries.

Study Method

  • For the study, thirty Warmblood horses were used as subjects. Assessment of the DMPJ, toe conformation and CSA of SDFT and DDFT was based on lateromedial radiographs of the horse’s toe and fetlock along with associated transverse ultrasound images.
  • Several variables were also measured and documented including the hoof angle, wither height (shoulder height), age, and sex of the horses. To determine any correlation, Pearson’s test was employed, while the paired t-test was used to identify left-right differences.

Study Findings

  • The findings reveal that the length and angle of the proximal and middle phalanx are significantly associated with the DMPJ. Conversely, the angle of the hoof and distal phalanx, and the CSA of SDFT/DDFT, did not show a significant correlation with the DMPJ.
  • Notable left-right differences occurred for the DMPJ and the angle of the proximal and middle phalanx. An intriguing finding was the moderate negative correlation between the DMPJ and wither height.
  • One of the challenges identified by the researchers is that this study looked at a specific population only, and it provides static evaluation, meaning it may not fully capture the dynamic situation.

Implications of the Study

  • This study’s findings might assist veterinary professionals by emphasizing the importance of focusing on the angulation and length of the pastern to evaluate the individual load affecting the DMPJ and its associated structures when considering orthopaedic treatments.
  • In addition, they may be useful for making better shoeing recommendations for horses, ensuring optimal comfort and minimising potential for injuries.

Cite This Article

APA
Hagen J, Kojah K, Geiger M. (2018). Correlations between the equine metacarpophalangeal joint angulation and toe conformation in statics. Open Vet J, 8(1), 96-103. https://doi.org/10.4314/ovj.v8i1.15

Publication

Open veterinary journal
ISSN: 2226-4485
NlmUniqueID: 101653182
Country: Libya
Language: English
Volume: 8
Issue: 1
Pages: 96-103

Researcher Affiliations

Hagen, Jenny
  • Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, Germany.
Kojah, Kaid
  • Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, Germany.
Geiger, Michael
  • University Hospital for Horses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, Germany.

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