Abstract
During racing, injury is more likely to occur on a bend than on a straight segment of track. This study aimed to quantify the effects of galloping at training speeds on large radius curves on stride parameters and limb lean angle in order to assess estimated consequences for limb loading. Seven Thoroughbred horses were equipped with a sacrum-mounted inertial measurement unit with an integrated GPS, two hoof-mounted accelerometers and retro-reflective markers on the forelimbs. Horses galloped 2–4 circuits anticlockwise around an oval track and were filmed at 120 frames per second using an array of ten cameras. Speed and curve radius were derived from GPS data and used to estimate the centripetal acceleration necessary to navigate the curve. Stride, stance and swing durations and duty factor (DF) were derived from accelerometer data. Limb markers were tracked and whole limb and third metacarpus (MCIII) angles were calculated. Data were analysed using mixed effects models with a significance level of p < 0.05. For horses galloping on the correct lead, DF was higher for the inside (lead) leg on the straight and on the curve. For horses galloping on the incorrect lead, there was no difference in DF between inside and outside legs on the straight or on the curve. DF decreased by 0.61% of DF with each 1 m s-2 increase in centripetal acceleration (p < 0.001). Whole limb inclination angle increased by 1.5° per 1 m s-1 increase in speed (p = 0.002). Limb lean angles increase as predicted, and lead limb function mirrors the functional requirements for curve running. A more comprehensive understanding of the effects of lean and torque on the distal limb is required to understand injury mechanisms.
Highlights
In nature, the negotiation of curves is important during locomotion, for example during predator-prey interactions where speed alone may be insufficient to allow escape or a successful hunt [1]
duty factor (DF) decreased by 0.61% with each 1 m s-2 increase in centripetal acceleration (p < 0.001) (Fig 3)
This study shows the changes in stride parameters and limb inclination angle in horses when galloping at training speeds on a large curve when compared to running on the straight
Summary
The negotiation of curves is important during locomotion, for example during predator-prey interactions where speed alone may be insufficient to allow escape or a successful hunt [1]. Domesticated horses negotiate curves and bends frequently, both in racing and other disciplines, with horses often training and racing on oval tracks in the USA, Australia and elsewhere. It has been suggested that increased limb force associated with galloping on a curve may be associated with increased injury risk [2]. These products were not used in this study. This does not alter our adherence to PLOS ONE policies on sharing data and materials
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