Dynamic model of the equine hindlimb during the swing phase

A dynamic model is developed to describe the swing phase of the hindlimb of a normally walking horse. The limb was represented by four rigid segments constrained to move in a sagittal plane only. The mathematical equations of motion of this four-element pendulum were formulated using Lagrange's theorem. The morphometric parameters from the hindlimb segments of 3 horses were determined using high-speed film analysis. Five muscle groups were incorporated in the model. Muscle activity was derived from earlier EMG measurements. Optimization of muscle moments resulted in a simulated swing movement that approximated that in the living animal.