Power flow in the equine forelimb

Area of Science:

• Equine biomechanics
• Locomotion analysis
• Animal physiology

Background:

• Understanding energy dynamics in equine limbs is crucial for lameness diagnosis and performance analysis.
• Previous studies have focused on joint moments and forces, but segmental power flow remains less understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and apply a method for estimating segmental powers and power flow in the equine forelimb during the stance phase of walking.
• To identify the primary sources and pathways of energy transfer through the distal forelimb segments.

Main Methods:

• Collected S-VHS video and force platform data from a walking Dutch Warmblood horse over 5 trials.
• Combined two camera views using direct linear transformation for 3D kinematic analysis.
• Calculated segmental moments and reaction forces using positional, angular, and ground reaction force data.
• Computed power flows across proximal and distal segment ends and total segmental power.

Main Results:

• Cannon segment: power flowed proximally to distally during initial and terminal stance, and distally to proximally during mid-stance.
• Pastern segment: power flowed proximally during initial loading, distally during midstance, and into both ends during terminal stance.
• Hoof segment: experienced energy loss in terminal stance due to proximal power outflow.

Conclusions:

• The pastern segment is a key interface, receiving energy during loading and push-off and transferring it proximally during midstance.
• The method provides insights into the complex energy transfer mechanisms within the equine forelimb during locomotion.
• Findings contribute to a deeper understanding of equine limb function and potential sites of energy dissipation or absorption.