Determination of the stiffness of the equine spine.

This research investigates the mechanical properties of the equine back and how this knowledge can contribute towards a better understanding of equine back conditions. The study reveals that the stiffness of an equine spine varies based on the direction of the applied force and on the position of the spine.

Research Objective

• The objective of the study was to determine the stiffness of the equine spine particularly how it depends on the direction of the applied force and the position of the spine.

Methods

• Fourteen dissected spines were tested using a tensile testing machine.
• The researchers simulated three different positions – dorsoventral, laterolateral, and dorsoventral-30 degree rotated movement – and applied force on the dorsal spinous process of T12 to reach an excursion of 4 cm in each direction.
• The distribution of the stiffness coefficients was tested using a Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, and compared using paired t tests.

Results

• The mean dorsoventral stiffness was 2093 +/- 611 N/m for the nonrotated spine and 2182 +/- 459 N/m for the 30 degree rotated spine.
• The mean laterolateral stiffness was significantly lower than the dorsoventral stiffness at 1454 +/- 156 N/m.

Conclusions

• The researchers concluded that stiffness of the equine spine depends on the direction of the loading force.
• Further, the research suggests that stiffness of the spine under loading may be a crucial factor affecting the development of equine back disorders.