Dynamic Mobilization Exercises Improve Activity and Stride Parameters Measured with Accelerometry in Sedentary Horses

Area of Science:

• Equine Sports Medicine
• Animal Biomechanics
• Veterinary Rehabilitation

Background:

• Dynamic mobilization exercises (DME) are recognized for preventing musculoskeletal injuries and enhancing back health in sport horses.
• Limited research exists on the specific effects of DME on equine locomotion and adaptation timing, with prior studies focusing on muscle morphology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of an 8-week dynamic mobilization exercise program on the locomotion of sedentary horses using accelerometry.
• To assess changes in locomotor parameters such as symmetry, stride characteristics, and activity levels.

Main Methods:

• Fourteen sedentary horses were divided into a DME group (n=8) and a control group (n=6).
• The DME group performed 10 specific exercises three times weekly for 8 weeks.
• Accelerometry was used to measure gait parameters at walk and trot at multiple time points before, during, and after the intervention period.

Main Results:

• The DME group exhibited significant increases in dorsoventral displacement and activity, as well as mediolateral activity, from week 4 onwards.
• Longitudinal activity increased from week 2 (trot) and week 4 (walk).
• Locomotor symmetry and stride length improved by week 6, with a decrease in stride frequency by week 8; velocity remained constant.

Conclusions:

• Dynamic mobilization exercises effectively enhance equine locomotor activity in dorsoventral, mediolateral, and longitudinal planes.
• DME promotes longer, more symmetrical strides, indicating improved overall movement patterns in horses.
• The findings support DME as a valuable tool for improving equine biomechanics and potentially reducing injury risk.