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Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)2018; 234; 11-23; doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2018.01.006

On the brink of daily clinical application of objective gait analysis: What evidence do we have so far from studies using an induced lameness model?

Abstract: Quantitative gait analysis has the potential to offer objective and unbiased gait information that can assist clinical decision-making. In recent years, a growing number of gait analysis systems have come onto the market, highlighting the demand for such technology in equine orthopaedics. However, it is imperative that the measured variables which are used as outcome parameters are supported by scientific evidence and that the interpretation of such measurements is backed by a proper understanding of the biomechanical principles of equine locomotion. This review, which is based on studies on experimentally induced lameness, summarises the currently most widely used methods for gait analysis and the available evidence concerning gait parameters that can be used to quantify gait changes due to lameness. These are discussed regarding their current and future potential for routine clinical application.
Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Publication Date: 2018-01-31 PubMed ID: 29680381DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2018.01.006Google 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.

This research paper presents a review of the current state of objective gait analysis, particularly in the field of equine orthopaedics. The authors discuss commonly used methods for gait analysis, and also consider the scientific evidence supporting these methods, using data from studies on experimentally induced lameness.

Objective Gait Analysis: An Overview

  • The main focus of this paper is the application of objective gait analysis, specifically in equine orthopaedics. Gait analysis is the systematic study of animal locomotion, and in this context, it’s about how horses move. It is quantitative, meaning it focuses on generating numerical data that can assist clinicians in making informed decisions about horse health and treatment.
  • The authors note that interest in gait analysis tools is on the rise, signifying the demand for this technology in the field. This demand is linked to the ability of gait analysis to offer unbiased and objective data that can be used to assess a horse’s movement and detect any abnormalities.

Scientific Evidence and the Relevance of Biomechanical Principles

  • The review underscores the importance of solid scientific backing for any parameters measured during gait analysis. Essentially, the data that these performance gauges produce need to be supported by empirical evidence to ensure their reliability and accuracy.
  • Interpreting the measurements gleaned from gait analysis involves understanding the biomechanical principles governing equine locomotion. Such knowledge is imperative because it helps clinicians relate the measured variables to the physical movements and functionalities of horses.

Experimentally Induced Lameness Studies

  • The review is principally based on studies involving experimentally induced lameness in horses. These types of studies are designed to create a controlled lameness condition in an animal, allowing researchers to closely observe and quantify gait changes resulting from the lameness.
  • The ultimate purpose of reviewing these studies is not only to understand the current methodologies in gait analysis but also to investigate the evidence supporting particular gait parameters that could be used to quantify changes in gait due to lameness. This could provide key insights into the progression of various orthopaedic conditions and help veterinarians devise effective treatment plans.

Current and Future Clinical Applications

  • The researchers also explore how gait analysis is currently being used in clinical settings and discusses its potential for future use. This involves weighing the current practicality of these technologies against their potential advantages, given the scientific evidence available.
  • A critical aspect of this is the translation of gait analysis findings into useful clinical information, which will ultimately enhance the care and treatment for horses suffering from locomotive conditions.

Cite This Article

APA
Serra Bragança FM, Rhodin M, van Weeren PR. (2018). On the brink of daily clinical application of objective gait analysis: What evidence do we have so far from studies using an induced lameness model? Vet J, 234, 11-23. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2018.01.006

Publication

Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)
ISSN: 1532-2971
NlmUniqueID: 9706281
Country: England
Language: English
Volume: 234
Pages: 11-23
PII: S1090-0233(18)30006-6

Researcher Affiliations

Serra Bragança, F M
  • Department of Equine Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 112-114, NL-3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands. Electronic address: f.m.serrabraganca@uu.nl.
Rhodin, M
  • Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden.
van Weeren, P R
  • Department of Equine Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 112-114, NL-3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands.

MeSH Terms

  • Animals
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Decision Making
  • Gait
  • Horse Diseases / diagnosis
  • Horses
  • Lameness, Animal / diagnosis
  • Locomotion / physiology

Citations

This article has been cited 41 times.
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