Equine Biomechanics, Gait Abnormalities And Applied Anatomy

Equine Biomechanics, Gait Abnormalities And Applied Anatomy

This 4-day course is offered through a classroom and hands-on approach. These topics are important for anyone in the equine health care field and equine performance as well as in training to truly understand the horse.

Learn to recognize irregularities and gait abnormalities through a variety of formats utilized in today's industry. Ever wondered what your vet is looking for? Now you can hear the doctor think and explain out loud. Understanding gait diagramming and where the limbs are placed throughout individual gaits enables you to visualize which joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles are utilized for the movements.

This course does not attempt to replace the veterinarian expertise; however it will teach you better assessment skills and a develop a sharper eye. Surface anatomy and palpation of joints, tendons and ligaments are also included.

Class Outline:

• Gait analysis and evaluation guideline
• Conformation evaluation
• Locating palpation points
• Causes and symptoms of the lame horse
• Analysis of conformation: limb deviations, rotations and determination of symmetry
• Basic anatomy and terminology
• Preventing lameness
• Defining and diagramming the basic gaits
• History of biomechanics
• Biomechanical techniques
• High-speed cinematography
• Equipometry discussion
• Measuring horses
• Stay apparatus: structure, function and palpation of the forelimb
• Reciprocal and stay apparatus: structure, function and palpation of the hind limb
• Structure and function of the head and neck
• Sports analysis/video presentations and problem solving for various disciplines

Please lightly read through the text a few tmes before course commencement.

Required Reading:

Students must read and understand the veterinary vocabulary and terms, skeletal anatomy and bony landmarks in the pre-course study guide provided after course registration.

Practical Guide to Lameness in Horses by Ted Stashak and Cherry Hill.