Quantification of equine ground reaction force patterns.

This research article proposes a new technique to measure and interpret the force exerted on the ground by a horse when it walks. By comparing the data recorded to a ‘standard’ or healthy horse, the derived indices can help identify lameness in a horse and monitor the effectiveness of a treatment.

Methodology

• The research team proposed a method to quantify the ground reaction force (GRF) exerted by horses. GRF is the force exerted by the ground on a body in contact with it.
• The team focused on the stance phase of the horse’s gait, as this is the phase when the hoof is in contact with the ground.
• The researchers selected particular force magnitudes and peak times during the normalized stance phase for their focus. This phase was observed in both left and right opposite limbs of the horse.
• By using these selected factors, the team calculated what they called ‘symmetry indices’. These indices represent the symmetry levels in the left and right opposite limbs’ motion.

Comparisons and Creation of H(orse)INDEX

• The data obtained from each limb was then compared with data from a ‘standard horse’, leading to the creation of limb indices. The standard horse represents a baseline set of values, presumably from a healthy horse with a normal gait.
• A combination of the amplitude, peak-time symmetry, and limb indices was used to create a single H(orse)INDEX. This index essentially gives a measurement for each horse studied.

Application and Uses

• The indices derived from the study can be used to compare different horses, providing a standard measurement to quantify their GRF patterns.
• The primary aim of the indices is to assist in the detection and evaluation of lameness in horses. Lameness is a common health issue in horses, characterized by changes in gait. These indices can be used to show differences between a normal gait and a lame one.
• They can also monitor the effectiveness of any given treatment for lameness, by comparing the H(orse)INDEX before and after treatment, observing any changes in the force pattern symmetry.