Sensitivity analysis and application to trotting of a noninvasive method to calculate flexor tendon forces in the equine forelimb.

The research paper examines a non-invasive method for estimating flexor tendon forces in a horse’s forelimb and checks its sensitivity to measurement and modeling errors. The study also applies this method to Dutch Warmblood horses as they trot. After correcting for measurement errors, the method is deemed beneficial for determining average tendon forces for a group of horses.

Methodology and Error Analysis

• The researchers used kinematic and ground-reaction force (GRF) data obtained from horses while trotting, gathered in a previous study. Using this data, the forces in the flexor tendons were calculated.
• To test the sensitivity of the method, the researchers introduced fixed relative and absolute errors into the data calculations. These errors were based on the normal accuracy range of the variables.
• The researchers also performed a similar analysis for a measure of strain on the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon.

Results and Conclusion

• The study reveals that the main sources of errors that influence the accuracy of this method are the modeling errors in the mechanical properties of the suspensory ligament, and the measurement errors in the point of application of the GRF and the position of the marker on the distal interphalangeal joint.
• The influence of these measurement errors can be minimized by applying standard correction methods.
• Upon correction of these errors, this noninvasive calculation method can then be used to effectively compute mean tendon forces for a group of horses.
• Using these corrected measurements, the research can evaluate the influence of various factors such as surface properties, the type of shoe worn by the horse, speed, and fatigue on the forces exerted on the tendons.
• The researchers concluded that this method holds significant potential as a research tool for studying the cause, prevention, and treatment of tendon injuries in horses.