Effects of exercise on biomechanical properties of the superficial digital flexor tendon in foals.

The research investigates the impact of different levels of exercise on the biomechanical properties of the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) in foals. The findings suggest that moderate and low-intensity exercises may be more beneficial in fortifying the tendons in horses than occasional episodes of high-intensity workouts, which could potentially affect their susceptibility to tendon injuries later in life.

Research Methodology

• The study involved 43 Dutch Warmblood foals which were divided into three groups: those that remained in stalls and did not exercise, those that were also kept in stalls but underwent daily exercise, and those that were allowed to roam freely in the pasture.
• At 5- and 11-month marks, some of the foals were euthanized for the purpose of the research. Their SDFT were extracted and studied.
• A material testing system was employed to determine the biomechanical properties of the SDFT. This involved measuring the cross-sectional area of the tendon and recording the traction forces that the tendons were capable of withstanding.
• The normalized force at rupture, strain at rupture, and stress levels at 4% strain were compared among the three groups, as well as within each group.

Findings of the Research

• At the 5-month mark, the cross-sectional area and force at rupture values were significantly higher for the group that was kept in pastures compared to the other two groups that were housed in stalls, irrespective of whether they were exercised or not. Additionally, levels of stress at 4% strain were found to be significantly lower for the pastured group, indicating better biomechanical performance.
• However, by the 11-month check, there was no significant difference among the three groups in terms of cross-sectional area and normalized force at rupture. This was attributed to a substantial increase in the force at rupture value for the non-exercising group and a decrease in the same for the pastured group.

Conclusions Drawn

• The study concluded that exercise plays a significant role in influencing the biomechanical properties of SDFT in foals.
• Moderate and low-intensity exercises, carried out consistently from a young age, could be more beneficial for developing strong and supple tendons in horses, as compared to sudden episodes of high-intensity exercise.
• The research suggests that following the recommended exercise pattern from a young age could potentially reduce the risk of tendon injuries in horses in their later years.