Use of an instrument sandwiched between the hoof and shoe to measure vertical ground reaction forces and three-dimensional acceleration at the walk, trot, and canter in horses.

The study presents the development of a device capable of accurately measuring the vertical ground reaction forces and three-dimensional acceleration in horses at various gaits (walk, trot, and canter), by installing it between the horse’s hoof and shoe.

Research Methods

• The research was conducted on 5 clinically sound Thoroughbreds.
• The recording instrument created for the study weighed 350g and was constructed of 2 metal plates, 2 bolts, 4 load cells, and 3 accelerometers.
• The instrument was attached to the horse’s hoof using a glue-on shoe and was designed to support as much load exerted by a limb as possible.
• The load cells and accelerometers of the device were connected to a 16-channel transmitter, which sent signals to a telemetry receiver for amplification and interpretation.

Research Findings

• The researcher found that the recording instrument was able to measure real-time data of the 4 components of the ground reaction force or their resultant force alongside acceleration in 3 dimensions as horses walked, trotted, or cantered on a treadmill.
• The force-time curve patterns recorded for consecutive horse strides were consistent with each other and were similar to those previously reported using a force plate.

Research Conclusion

• The study concluded that the recording instrument developed allows for reliable recording of vertical ground reaction force and three-dimensional acceleration in horses at the walk, trot, and canter.
• This instrument is potentially beneficial for further studies related to horse biomechanics and can offer new insights into maintaining and improving horse health and performance in various equine disciplines.