Kinematic analysis of the metacarpophalangeal joint during jump reception in Brasileiro de Hipismo breed horses

Abstract

ABSTRACT The jumping kinematics vary among horse breeds, influencing their performance and athletic capability. The objective was to evaluate variations in the metacarpophalangeal joint angle during jump reception at different heights and widths through kinematic analysis. Fourteen Brasileiro de Hipismo (BH) horses were assessed using reflective markers. Vertical jumps of 90 and 120cm in height (V 90 and V 120) and oxer-type jumps with heights of 90 and 120cm (Ox 90 and Ox 120), with a width of 100 cm, were examined. Evaluations of the metacarpophalangeal joint angles occurred at two moments during jump reception (MT1) and (MT2) when the joint reached maximum hyperextension. Significant differences were observed in the metacarpophalangeal joint angles (MT1 and MT2) during jump reception with p≤0.0001 (V 90, V 120, Ox 90, and Ox 120). A p-value of 0.00051 was observed between the angles of V 90 and Ox 120. There was a weak correlation among the evaluated data. The jumping kinematics in BH horses provided insights into flexibility and adaptability during jumps, as well as how the metacarpophalangeal joint angles changed during jump reception.

Keywords

• functional limb
• locomotion
• joint movements