Abstract
Goniometry is a low-cost, user-friendly and widely available technique used by different veterinary medicine professionals to estimate joint range of motion (ROM). Studies providing breed-specific reference ranges for goniometric measurements are scarce and there is a lack of information regarding joint angles in French Bulldogs. This prospective study set out to determine normal ROM for the carpus, elbow, shoulder, tarsus, stifle and hip joints in healthy, adult French Bulldogs using goniometry. We hypothesized ROM would be similar in this and other dog breeds. Twenty dogs met the inclusion criteria. Sample size was calculated using power analysis based on previous studies. Goniometric measurements were made by a single examiner. Limbs were measured in random order and three measurements made per joint. Dogs were not sedated. Joint angles measured in French Bulldogs in this study were similar to those reported in Labrador Retrievers (shoulder, carpal, and tarsal flexion), Rottweilers (shoulder, carpus, and hip flexion), and Dachshunds (hip, stifle, and tarsal flexion). Similar flexion angles and ROM were detected in right and left limb joints. Findings of this study suggest similar ROM in French Bulldogs and other dog breeds. Lack of radiographic assessment and the fact that goniometric measurements were made by a single examiner were the major limitations of this study.
Highlights
Goniometric measurement of joint angles is widely used by orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists to estimate joint range of motion (ROM)
There is a great need to determine breed-specific ROM in dogs [5, 6], as related literature is limited to a few studies in Labrador retrievers [2], German shepherds [7], and Rottweilers [8]
The center of the goniometer was placed over the axis of joint rotation
Summary
Goniometric measurement of joint angles is widely used by orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists to estimate joint range of motion (ROM). It is thought to be a useful technique for routine monitoring of patient progression and response to physical rehabilitation, given the close relationship between decreased joint angles and joint stiffness in osteoarthritic patients [1, 4]. There is a great need to determine breed-specific ROM in dogs [5, 6], as related literature is limited to a few studies in Labrador retrievers [2], German shepherds [7], and Rottweilers [8]. French Bulldogs have recently enjoyed increasing popularity among brachycephalic breeds [9]. Popular as French Bulldogs may be, joint angles have not been quantified in this breed
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