Quantification of hoof deformation using optical motion capture

Area of Science:

• Equine biomechanics
• Biomedical engineering
• Veterinary orthopedics

Background:

• Hoof capsule deformation is a key event during the stance phase of equine locomotion, influenced by distal phalanx loading.
• Accurate measurement of hoof deformation is crucial for understanding equine lameness and developing effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate optical motion capture as a method for measuring hoof deformation during locomotion.
• To quantify the deformation of the dorsal hoof wall during the stance phase in horses.

Main Methods:

• Three clinically sound horses were used, with retroreflective markers placed on the hoof wall and shoe.
• A 3-dimensional (3-D) optical motion capture system recorded marker positions at 240 frames/s during trotting.
• System accuracy was calibrated to < 0.1 mm using a micrometer.

Main Results:

• Consistent patterns of hoof deformation were observed across all horses.
• The dorsal hoof wall exhibited inward movement towards the limb's axis, with greater displacement proximally.
• Mean peak deformation ranged from 0.17–0.92 mm (dorsal) and 0.18–0.76 mm (lateral).
• Shoe-ground and hoof-shoe movements were minimal (< 0.7 mm and < 0.3 mm, respectively).

Conclusions:

• Optical motion capture is a viable technique for measuring equine hoof deformation.
• This method overcomes limitations of existing techniques, offering improved accuracy and insights into hoof mechanics.