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Radiographic measures of bone shape in young thoroughbreds during training for racing
H M Davies1, S M Gale, I D Baker
1Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia.
Equine Veterinary Journal. Supplement
|February 5, 2000
Summary
Radiographs revealed that the third metacarpal bone (MC3) shape changes in young Thoroughbred racehorses during training. Bone shape alterations correlate with shin soreness, indicating potential for radiographic monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Equine orthopedics
- Radiographic bone morphometry
Background:
- The third metacarpal bone (MC3) is crucial for Thoroughbred racing performance.
- Understanding bone adaptation during early training is vital for injury prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To radiographically measure shape changes in the MC3 of young Thoroughbreds during initial race preparation.
- To investigate if these radiographic changes correlate with the incidence of shin soreness.
Main Methods:
- Lateral radiographs of MC3 were taken bi-weekly for 10 weeks, and at 6 months post-training commencement.
- Measurements included dorsal cortex (DC) width, palmar cortex (PC) width, and medulla (M) width.
- Calculated ratios (z = DC/M; RI = (DC + PC)/M * DC/PC) analyzed bone shape changes.
Main Results:
- Significant changes in MC3 shape were observed during the training period.
- The dorsal cortex (DC) became proportionately thicker relative to other bone dimensions.
- Increased DC thickness was more pronounced in horses that developed shin soreness.
Conclusions:
- Standard lateral radiographs can detect MC3 shape modifications in young racehorses undergoing training.
- Radiographic monitoring of MC3 shape may offer insights into training-induced bone adaptations and shin soreness risk.