Influence of limb temperature on sensory nerve conduction velocity in horses

Sensory nerve conduction velocity was measured in the lateral palmar nerve of 8 horses. The limb temperature was manipulated by external means and monitored. Alterations in the nerve conduction velocity related to limb temperature variation were identified at both increased and decreased temperatures. These were quantified and a mean value of 2.15 +/- 0.2 m/s/degree Celsius was determined. The effect of altered limb temperature should be considered in nerve conduction velocity determinations.