Osteochondrosis and arthrosis in Norwegian slaughter-pigs in 1980 compared to 1970

The incidence of high degree lesions ("open" osteochondrosis/arthrosis) in the stifle joint of norwegian slaughter-pigs has decreased from 6.7% in 1970 to 1.5% in 1980. The most probable main reason for this seems to be a selection for functionally better exterior conformation of the back and hind legs of breeding animals. The incidence of low degree lesions has been increasing, so the incidence of normal joints are slightly decreasing. One has to have a mind that the etiology of leg weakness and of osteochondrosis are complex, and that one should known the special problems of the breed in question before proposing preventive initiatives.