Early development of gait asymmetries in trotting standardbred colts.

This research aimed at understanding the development of gait asymmetries in trotting standardbred colts. Researchers found that certain differences in gait were noticeable between left and right diagonal limbs, and it was suggested that laterality in horses may be inherited. The researchers emphasized an importance of thorough gait examination and comprehensive coordination training at an early age.

Methodology

• The study utilized ten trotting Standardbred colts, recording their gait at 8, 12 and 18 months of age with the help of high-speed cinematography.
• The horses were made to trot on a treadmill operating at 4.0 m/secs to monitor their strides.
• Out of these ten horses, five underwent an intensified training program from eight months onwards, whilst the other five did not undergo any training, thereby serving as controls in the study.
• The recordings were analyzed using semi-automatic film-reading equipment, and a range of variables demonstrating gait symmetry were calculated and scaled using computer software.

Results and Findings

• The study observed distinct differences, particularly between left and right diagonal and contralateral pair of limbs, indicating the possibility of inherited laterality in horses.
• The most significant systematic differences in stride and gait were found in 18-month old horses that had undergone the training program.
• No such pronounced variations were reported in the control group of untrained horses.

Significance and Impact

• The study substantiates the relevance of careful gait examination and the need for comprehensive coordination training at an early age in horses.
• By identifying systematic differences in gait in trained horses, the research suggests that both genetics (inherited laterality) and conditioning (training programs) might influence gait patterns in horses.
• This study not only holds potential implications for the racehorse training industry but also contributes to the broader understanding of equine locomotion and its development.