Abstract
The objective of this paper was to compare the range of motion in Border Collies to that of Labrador Retrievers. Humeral circumference, thigh circumference and differences between sex and age were also compared. Twenty three (23) healthy Border Collies and 18 healthy Labrador Retrievers were used. A single investigator measured range of motion of the carpus, elbow, shoulder, hip, stifle and tarsus as well as humeral and thigh circumference under field conditions in 23 Border Collies and 18 Labrador Retrievers. Border Collies had a significantly greater range of motion (P<O.001) in all joints than Labrador Retrievers. Sex was a significant predictor of range of motion (P=0.010), but age was not (P=0.400). Range of motion significantly varied by joint (P<0.001) and the effect was different within Border Collies versus Labrador Retrievers (P=0.008). Range of motion did not vary between left and right sides (P=0.365). Considerations of range of motion were made in deciding pathology and progress based on type and breed of dog (sporting, herding, protection). Comparisons were made based on breed and from left side to right side. Key words: Range of motion, goniometry, flexion, extension, and abduction.
Highlights
Range of motion (ROM) is the distance and direction that a joint can move between positions to its full potential such as flexion and extension
Normal range of motion measurements have been established via goniometry on Labrador Retrievers (Jaegger, 2002)
All dogs had the same measurements taken at the same time and in the same order of location
Summary
Range of motion (ROM) is the distance and direction that a joint can move between positions to its full potential such as flexion and extension. Goniometry is the measurement of angles, and this is how range of motion is evaluated in human physical therapy and animal rehabilitation (Boone and Azen, 1978; Riegger-Krugh and Millis, 2000). Limits in range of motion help quantify deficiencies and aid in documenting improvement after surgery and during animal rehabilitation (Mölsä, 2014). Normal range of motion measurements have been established via goniometry on Labrador Retrievers (Jaegger, 2002). Seventy percent thigh circumference with the leg in extension is an indirect method of assessing changes in muscle mass in the hind limbs of canines and animal physiotherapists when evaluating orthopedic disease (Millis and Scroggs, 1999; Molsa, 2014). Antebrachial (humeral) circumference (just above the elbow around the humerus and associated musculature) is the most common indirect measurement of general front leg musculature used at some rehabilitation practices
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