Poor conformation can lead to problems related to concussion. The evaluation of conformation has traditionally been subjective or empirical and remains the primary method of assessment. Conformation. Some studies and studbooks have used a system of linear scoring in an attempt to quantify the repeatability of subjective evaluation (, method of assessment employs a numeric scale to describe defined conformational traits across the entire spectrum of possible configurations, one biologic extreme to the other. Conformation will, therefore, partially dictate the relationship between form and function, thus modifying the potential for biomechanical efficiency, superior performance, musculoskeletal durability, and perhaps even longevity (Wallin et al., 2001). Figure 1 demonstrates this conformation. A founding study by Magnussen (1985) described the comprehensive set of landmarks listed below, and many research studies have followed this protocol or a derivative of it. From these observations, an overall proportioned symmetry in lengths and heights is desirable, both left to right and fore to hind. That might or might not offer them a speed advantage but has been bred into many lines of racehorses. When a horse stands square, the angle of the shoulder blade and the horizontal line should measure between 40 and 55 degrees. In horses with ideal conformation, a visualized vertical plumb line dropped from the tuberosity of the scapular spine should bisect the longitudinal axis of the forelimb to the metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ or fetlock) and fall 5 cm behind the heel in the lateral view. Horse Breed: Shire Horse Cultures of the World. Objective conformational evaluation provides a useful adjunct to subjective assessment by quantification of some conformational traits; however, it must be remembered that not all conformational aspects can be measured objectively. FIGURE 15-5 Illustrations of some common conformational defects of the hooves (see Table 15-1 for description). When assessing foal conformation, limbs can also be viewed from above at the shoulder and hip (skyline view). Some common terms describing conformational alignments are defined anatomically in Table 15-1 and illustrated in. Instead, look at the big picture of your horses conformation, job, and way of going.. Common Term 1. Tibiotarsal angle >170 degrees (Marks, 2000), usually due to a more upright tibia You may also needEvaluation of performance potentialAge and disuse in athletes: Effects of detraining, spelling, injury, and ageMuscle anatomy, physiology, and adaptations to exercise and trainingTraining working horsesComparative aspects of exercise physiologyThermoregulationThe respiratory system: Anatomy, physiology, and adaptations to exercise and trainingTraining the event horse Preselection of juvenile animals prior to growth completion based on conformation alone is risky. ISSN (print): 2047-9867 ISSN (online): 2052-2967. Initial attempts to provide absolute values in conformation assessment have used the tools listed in Table 15-2 in combination with a reference marker system. 6) Which line represents the length of the Hip? As a horse comes into the breed ring and stands at the peak of the triangle, the judge has only three minutes to make a total assessment. Tool Make sure your entire horse is in the photo and that he's well groomed, wearing a bridle, looking straight ahead and standing on level ground-and try to avoid distracting backgrounds. Author: Dawn Melbye, former instructor, University of Minnesota Crookston. are bred to run and are apt to have a croup that is slightly higher than the withers. Back at the knee/calf knee TABLE 152 So, it is sensible to avoid conformational problems like being calf-kneed (back at the knee), which potentially exacerbates hyperextension of these joints. Pain and conformation. Each breed organization has identified its ideal horse. Horses can have 17 to 19 pairs of ribs except Thoroughbreds and Arabians. The conformation or inherent anatomic structure of the horse is an integral part of the equine musculoskeletal constitution and will influence the quality of dynamic performance. Evaluating Conformation - A Dynamic Process "You don't just look at a horse from a static view, and you don't just look at them from one angle," Adams stressed. A lower jaw that is clearly defined and well separated underneath the jaw, A clean throatlatch without heavy fat and muscling. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Magnusson (1985) showed less variance among judges on overall impressions and type traits. Jumpers, reiners, and cutting horses are prone to. However, certain conformational faults such as extreme tarsal angulation (large or small) and tarsal valgus are almost certainly predisposing to injury or lameness in racing events and are best avoided. Uneven feet FIGURE 15-2 Illustrations of some common conformational defects of the hindlimbs (see Table 15-1 for description). CONFORMATION OF HORSES Agriscience 334 Equine Science #8893-B TEKS: 119.66 (c)(2)(B). Magnusson (1985) showed less variance among judges on overall impressions and type traits. Balance. 4 Generally, a horse's neck should be one and a half times the length of the head. Flatter Croups. The neck should tie into the horse's body fairly high to provide good chest space. Wider Definition : A more holistic definition considers the implications of form for dynamic function as well. Question 11. The segment lengths of specific long bones of limbs should also be noted at this time. Congruent sloping angulation of the shoulder and hip is also desirable, with a proportional length of individual limbs in relation to the height and size of the body (Figure 15-3). Ninety-five percent of forelimb lameness in horses can be attributed to problems at the level of or distal to the carpus. When evaluating the conformation of a horse, you should consider the following areas: balance, muscle, structural correctness, and breed and sex characteristics (Figure 1). For global advancement in this area of study, it is clearly imperative to use universally comparative methodology, which is somewhat lacking. Proximal attachment of the lateral collateral ligament of the fetlock joint to the distal end of the third metatarsal bone. Although different breeds will have feet of different shapes and sizes, it is universally and anecdotally desirable to have balanced feet positioned symmetrically under the central limb axis with a straight hoofpastern axis (the dorsal surface of the hoof wall lies parallel to the dorsal surface of the pastern region) (see Figure 15-3 and Figure 15-5). Selecting a horse that is well-built in its skeletal structure will provide a more comfortable ride and reduce health issue. The various areas horses are evaluated on for overall . Desirable conformation. Tibiotarsal (hock) angle 53 degrees or less (Holmstrom et al., 1990) Carpal arthrosis is more common in racehorses due to hyperextension of their carpal (knee) joints when they fatigue, says Duberstein. There are five main criteria to evaluate when examining a horse's conformation: balance, structural correctness, way of going, muscling, and breed/sex . Log In or Register a > to continue (37.5%) had toed-out hoof conformation, and six horses (25%) had toed-in hoof conformation in both forelimbs. Concussion is the force that travels up the leg each time the hoof hits the ground and if excessive, leads to injuries and conditions such as ringbone (a disease of the pastern joints). This results in uneven distribution of concussion each time the limb impacts the ground, with one area of the bone, joint, or soft tissue structures assuming excessive impact., She cautions against getting hung up on absolutes such as which conformational flaw is better or worse than another. Some studies and studbooks have used a system of linear scoring in an attempt to quantify the repeatability of subjective evaluation (Dolvik and Klemetsdal, 1999; Koenen et al., 1995; Mawdsley et al., 1996). FIGURE 15-4 In horses with ideal conformation, a visualized vertical plumb line dropped from the tuberosity of the scapular spine should bisect the longitudinal axis of the forelimb to the metacarpophalangeal joint (fetlock) and fall 5 cm behind the heel in the lateral view. Although recent research has shown that a bit of lateral movement is the standard way of going for the horse, the horse with great conformation will move relatively straight and bear its weight in a balanced way, landing flat at the walk, and heel first at the other gaits . Briefly, relevant body observations should include head shape and size; height at the withers and croup; body length; neck length; shoulder length (top of the withers to point of the shoulder); pelvic length (tuber coxae to tuber ischii); scapular and humeral inclination; pelvic and femoral inclination; and chest width. are bred to have a combination of elevated movement and elongated stride. The veterinarian will study conformation, balance and weight-bearing, as well as ook for any evidence of injury or stress. In Ross MW, Dyson SJ, editors: Diagnosis and management of lameness in the horse, Philadelphia, PA, 2003, WB Saunders, p 21.) Tags: The Athletic Horse Principles and Practice of Equine Sports Medicine In horses with ideal conformation, a visualized vertical plumb line dropped from the tuberosity of the scapular spine should bisect the longitudinal axis of the forelimb to the metacarpophalangeal joint (fetlock) and fall 5 cm behind the heel in the lateral view. Reasons for performing the study: Assessment of conformation is commonly used in the selection of horses for performance purposes. When an owner complains about tripping, subtle or inconsistent forelimb lameness, or difficulty in transitions, cervical arthritis is on my list of potential differentials., Collatos says she tends to avoid a low-set neck conformation for upper-level dressage or show jumping prospects. unshod Standardbred horses with toed-in, toed-out and normal hoof conformation Vet J. However, this requires expensive equipment, has the health and safety implications of possible radiation exposure to personnel involved, and is very sensitive to subject positioning (Barr, 1994; White et al., 2008). Base narrow It does not only help us choose a pretty horse, but it also aids us in assessing their quality and even their risk of injury. Dynamic conformation. It is proposed that such a system of static conformation assessment, in conjunction with a similar system for dynamic linear assessment, would provide useful quantitative selection criteria in the description and breeding of horses. Shortened, choppy stride with potential to stumble. At the walk, however, landing flat is normal. One strategy for preventing lameness, no matter the horses conformation, is regular and correct hoof trimming and/or shoeing. The major disadvantages in using these methods are the possible errors introduced by marker placement on skeletal landmarks, particularly in the proximal skeleton, the consequent reliability of findings, and the time required to perform the measurements (Weller et al., 2006a). CHAPTER 15 Attempts to correct some foot deviations, such as shoring up low heels on a long-toed horse, can lead to further problems, notes Collatos. An overabundance of muscling is the last thing I look for. Quantitative knowledge of the normal growth patterns within particular breeds and evidence-based studies on the progression of conformational traits and gait quality from foal age to maturity are sparse. Some common terms describing conformational alignments are defined anatomically in Table 15-1 and illustrated in Figure 15-1 and Figure 15-2. If it's too big, then it will add a little extra weight to the forehand which is naturally already carrying around 60 percent of a horse's total weight. FIGURE 15-3 Measurement of shoulder length (A), rump length (B), shoulder angle (C), and rump angle (D). Toed out feet They also tend to . 2. All assessment of equine conformation should be conducted with the horse standing squarely (loading all limbs symmetrically) on a level surface. Some common terms describing conformational alignments are defined anatomically in Table 15-1 and illustrated in Figure 15-1 and Figure 15-2. Cranial, caudal, and lateral views are needed to determine limb deviations in the sagittal, coronal (frontal), and transverse planes (see Figures 15-1 and 15-2). The literature presented in this chapter will follow the terminology appearing in the research papers. Ideally, when viewed from the side, you should be able to draw a straight line through the center of the bones of the forearm, knee, cannon and bulb of the heel. good conformation. Neck length should be one third of the horses total body length and equal the length of the horse's front leg. Generally, a horse's neck should be one and a half times the length of the head. Horses naturally carry 65-70% of their body weight on the front end. Pigeon Toe-ed or Toe-ed Out Horses. Biomechanical evaluation relies heavily on strict physical and mechanical relationships of segments, requiring accurate anatomic terminology. So, it is sensible to avoid conformational problems like being calf-kneed (back at the knee), which potentially exacerbates hyperextension of these joints. The croup should be the same height as the withers to maintain balance in the horses body. University of Minnesota Extension discovers science-based solutions, delivers practical education, and engages Minnesotans to build a better future. The Head. Width of head and third metacarpal/metatarsalWidth of chest and pelvis (2006a) found measurement variations in stance within one horse to be almost as large as between horses, thus highlighting the importance of standardized repeatable positioning of the horse. From the side of the front leg, a straight line should be formed in front of the withers down the center of the front leg and touch at the heel. Assessing limbs, feet, and body can help you and your veterinarian identify anatomical traits that could end up being performance-affecting liabilities. Weller et al. It is critical that the farrier examine the entire bony column of the horse and balance the foot with respect to the weight-bearing forces that result from all aspects of a horses conformation. For example, a caudal deviation at the radiocarpal or metacarpal joint complex (knee) may be described as back at the knee, calf knee, or carpal hyperextension, none of which describes the precise origin of segmental misalignment. The skeletal format will affect such factors as joint range of motion, limb arc and hoof flight patterns, and weight distribution in motion, with subsequent effects on coordination of movement (including limb interference), balance, power (propulsion, impulsion, and collection), agility, and endurance. Conformation is the mixing of the different body parts of the horse, and how well they fit together visually and physically to create a high-performing, talented racehorse. The entire hindlimb should be bisected evenly in the caudal view. Horses that carry themselves in a way that generates less impact when they land likely do less damage to bones and joints than those individuals that come crashing down with each step., Toed-in (carpal or tarsal or fetlock varus), Toed-out (carpal or tarsal or fetlock valgus). Conformation will, therefore, partially dictate the relationship between form and function, thus modifying the potential for biomechanical efficiency, superior performance, musculoskeletal durability, and perhaps even longevity (Wallin et al., 2001). Use this figure for Questions below. A bowlegged horse is one example of a deviation from ideal front leg conformation and presents as a wideset chest and legs that then bent . After assessment, overall observations can be related to desirable or benchmark breed-specific conformational characteristics and judgment made on the horses suitability to a given career. RELATED CONTENT | 7 Conformation Flaws: Piecing Together What We Know, Contracted heels or a club foot may predispose a horse to concussion-related foot lameness, she says. Strain on inner hock joint structures predisposes to osteoarthritis. Visual appraisal of defined criteria (the outlines and axes described above) and manual palpation of specific bony landmarks have been the basis of assessment, giving the examiner multiple three-dimensional images over a period. The evaluation of conformation has traditionally been subjective or empirical and remains the primary method of assessment. A horses heavy head is attached to a long neck that acts as a balancing arm or lever. What does good conformation mean? Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Stay up-to-date on the latest news about your horse's health with FREE newsletters from TheHorse.com. 12. As some conformational traits are dynamic and will only be apparent during ambulation, the traditional emphasis of conformational assessment as a pure description of static external appearance has been extended to include a more functional assessment of conformation during unridden and ridden gaits in some of the studies cited in this chapter. For global advancement in this area of study, it is clearly imperative to use universally comparative methodology, which is somewhat lacking. Stay on top of the most recent Horse Health news with, IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADOPTING THIS HORSE, PLEASE SUBMIT AN ADOPTION INQUIRY VIA OUR WEBSITE: ALLABOUTEQUINE dot ORG. It is with increasing frequency that osteoarthritis is diagnosed in the mid and lower cervical vertebrae, using ultrasound and advanced imaging such as CT (computed tomography). For these, quantitative conformational assessment, in addition to these traditional judging methods, has been suggested to improve predictive capability (Holmstrom and Philipsson, 1993). Square means the height from the withers to ground should equal the length of body (point of shoulder to the point of the buttocks). Conformation of the horse's front legs can affect their athletic ability, soundness, stride, speed and agility. Cow hocked/in at the hock Despite these limitations, subjective evaluation can be easily and quickly performed by an experienced evaluator, expediting the assessment of large numbers of horses within a short time frame. The constant growth of the hoof creates a dynamic relationship between the digital axis and dorsal hoof wall, which suggests that completely straight hoofpastern axes cannot exist over time without natural wear or appropriate trimming (Moleman et al., 2006). Good conformation always starts with balance. Predispose to upward fixation of the patella and potential stifle osteoarthritis. Proximal attachment of the lateral collateral ligament of the stifle joint to the femur However, this requires expensive equipment, has the health and safety implications of possible radiation exposure to personnel involved, and is very sensitive to subject positioning (Barr, 1994; Age and disuse in athletes: Effects of detraining, spelling, injury, and age, Muscle anatomy, physiology, and adaptations to exercise and training, Comparative aspects of exercise physiology, The respiratory system: Anatomy, physiology, and adaptations to exercise and training, The Athletic Horse Principles and Practice of Equine Sports Medicine, Distance between the forelimbs is greater at the chest than feet, the limb sloping medially, Carpal hyperextension due to a caudal displacement of the proximal row of carpal bones, the radiocarpal joint being <180 degrees (, Forward at the knee/bucked knee/over at the knee/sprung knee, Radiocarpal joint angle >180 degrees or lack of full carpal extension causing a flexion moment, Traditionally described as the metacarpus laterally deviated relative to the carpus; however, the displacement is usually in the radiocarpal joint (, Distinct notch distal to the accessory carpal bone on the palmar aspect of the limb causing the circumference of the leg below the carpus to be less than that above the metacarpophalangeal joint (fetlock), Metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal (pastern) joints have a straight appearance, Forefeet differ in size, shape, or both, causing variable hoofground angles, Tibiotarsal (hock) angle 53 degrees or less (, Either a rotational change in the hindlimb or tarsus valgus >180 degrees, Width of head and third metacarpal/metatarsal. 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Dawn Melbye, dynamic conformation of a horse instructor, University of Minnesota Extension discovers science-based solutions, delivers practical education, and horses... 15-1 for description ) one third of the head advantage but has been bred many! Various areas horses are evaluated on for overall: 2047-9867 issn ( ). The hindlimbs ( see Table 15-1 and Figure 15-2 Illustrations of some common terms describing alignments... Conformation of horses for performance purposes their athletic ability, soundness, stride, speed agility... Left to right and fore to hind Science # 8893-B TEKS: 119.66 ( c (... Has been bred into many lines of racehorses the veterinarian will study conformation, limbs can also noted... 40 and 55 degrees a horse stands square, the angle of the hooves ( Table! 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