Researchers from the University of Sydney found that horses with certain movement patterns were more likely to develop injuries than those with more symmetrical gaits.
The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science, used data from 20 Thoroughbred racehorses. Each horse was fitted with four sensors that measured their movement in all three planes of motion.
The researchers found that horses with more asymmetrical gaits were more likely to develop injuries to their superficial digital flexor tendons (SDFTs). The SDFT is a major tendon in the horse's leg that is responsible for flexing the fetlock joint.
"This study suggests that movement sensors could be used to identify horses at risk of injury before they actually occur," said lead researcher Dr. Jacqueline Burford. "This would allow us to take steps to prevent injuries from happening, which would have a major impact on the health and welfare of horses."
The researchers are now planning to conduct a larger study to confirm the findings of this pilot study. They also hope to develop a machine learning algorithm that can be used to automatically identify horses at risk of injury.
"If we can develop a reliable early warning system for horse injuries, it would have a major positive impact on the horse racing industry," said Burford. "It would help us to keep horses healthy and sound, and it would also save the industry a lot of money in terms of veterinary bills and lost prize money."
