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Mouncey R, Arango-Sabogal JC, de Mestre A, Verheyen KL. Associations between turn out practices and rates of musculoskeletal disease and injury in Thoroughbred foals and yearlings on stud farms in the United Kingdom. Equine Vet J 2023. [PMID: 38146768 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early-life locomotor activity during turn out may alter susceptibility to musculoskeletal disease and injury via modulation of behaviours and tissue development during growth. OBJECTIVES Investigate associations between turn out practices and rates of musculoskeletal disease and injury in young Thoroughbreds on stud farms in the United Kingdom. STUDY DESIGN Prospective cohort. METHODS Daily records were kept on location and duration of turn out for 134 Thoroughbred foals on six stud farms, from birth until leaving the farm or study exit. Data on veterinary-attended episodes of musculoskeletal disease or injury were collated concurrently. Average daily turn out times (hours), areas (acres) and group size (n foals) were calculated for rolling 7- and 30-day periods of age. Multivariable Cox regression, including farm as a random effect, was used to investigate associations between turn out practices and musculoskeletal disease and injury. RESULTS The overall incidence of musculoskeletal disease or injury was 5.3 cases/100 foal-months at risk (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.2-6.6). Compared with 24/7 turn out, average daily turn out times of between 9 and 23 hours over a 7-day period were associated with a 4.6-fold increase in musculoskeletal injury rate (95% CI: 1.7-12.3; P < 0.001), adjusting for farm and paddock area. Each 1-acre increase in the average daily turn out area during the 4th month of life, reduced the rate of musculoskeletal disease and injury between 6 and 18 months of age by 24% (hazard ratio 0.76, 95% CI: 0.58-0.99; P < 0.001), adjusting for farm and turn out time. MAIN LIMITATIONS Non-random sample of participants may affect generalisability. Use of veterinary-attended events likely underestimates disease/injury rates. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that disruptions or alterations to turn out time routines increase injury risk and should be avoided where possible. Turn out in larger paddocks, particularly before weaning, may confer protection against subsequent musculoskeletal disease and injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Mouncey
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Juan C Arango-Sabogal
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Amanda de Mestre
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Kristien L Verheyen
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
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2
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Likon I, Dyson S, Nagy A. Magnetic Resonance Imaging Measurements of the Proximal Palmar Cortex of the Third Metacarpal Bone and the Suspensory Ligament in Non-Lame Endurance Horses before and after Six Months of Training. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13061106. [PMID: 36978646 PMCID: PMC10044202 DOI: 10.3390/ani13061106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Proximal metacarpal injury is common in endurance horses, yet exercise-induced changes in this region have not been described. This study aimed to document objective exercise-induced changes in the proximal palmar cortex of the third metacarpal bone (PcMcIII) and the suspensory ligament (SL). Low-field magnetic resonance (MR) images of both proximal metacarpal regions were obtained from six novice and six experienced horses, before and after six months of endurance training. Measurements were acquired in T1-weighted transverse MR images at four levels and included the thickness of the PcMcIII, the mediolateral width, and the dorsopalmar depth of the entire SL and its lobes. We used t-tests or their nonparametric equivalents to compare the measurements from the two examinations and both novice and experienced horses. The medial aspect of PcMcIII was significantly thicker in experienced horses than in novice horses at 2 and 3 cm distal to the carpometacarpal joint. This likely reflects the cumulative effect of long-term exercise and possibly age. The PcMcIII was significantly thicker medially than laterally. There was no significant difference between pre- and post-season measurements. Six months of endurance training were not sufficient to induce changes in the thickness of PcMcIII or the SL that are detectable in low-field MR images.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Likon
- Equine Department and Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, 2225 Dóramajor Üllő, Hungary
| | - Sue Dyson
- The Cottage, Church Road, Market Weston, Diss IP22 2NX, UK
| | - Annamaria Nagy
- Equine Department and Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, 2225 Dóramajor Üllő, Hungary
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3
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Crawford KL, Finnane A, Greer RM, Barnes TS, Phillips CJC, Woldeyohannes SM, Bishop EL, Perkins NR, Ahern BJ. Survival Analysis of Training Methodologies and Other Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Injury in 2-Year-Old Thoroughbred Racehorses in Queensland, Australia. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:698298. [PMID: 34796223 PMCID: PMC8593238 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.698298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Musculoskeletal injuries remain a global problem for the Thoroughbred racing industry and there is conflicting evidence regarding the effect of age on the incidence of injuries. The ideal time to commence race training is strongly debated, with limited supporting literature. There is also conflicting evidence regarding the effect of high-speed exercise on musculoskeletal injuries. There is a strong interest in developing training and management strategies to reduce the frequency of injuries. The types of musculoskeletal injuries vary between 2-year-old and older horses, with dorsal metacarpal disease the most common injury in 2-year-old horses. It is likely that risk factors for injury in 2-year-old horses are different than those for older horses. It is also likely that the risk factors may vary between types of injury. This study aimed to determine the risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries and dorsal metacarpal disease. We report the findings of a large scale, prospective observational study of 2-year-old horses in Queensland, Australia. Data were collected weekly for 56-weeks, from 26 trainers, involving 535 2-year-old Thoroughbred racehorses, 1, 258 training preparations and 7, 512-weeks of exercise data. A causal approach was used to develop our statistical models, to build on the existing literature surrounding injury risk, by incorporating the previously established causal links into our analyses. Where previous data were not available, industry experts were consulted. Survival analyses were performed using Cox proportional hazards or Weibull regression models. Analysis of musculoskeletal injuries overall revealed the hazard was reduced with increased exposure to high-speed exercise [Hazard ratio (HR) 0.89, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.84, 0.94, p < 0.001], increased number of training preparations (HR 0.58, 95% CI 0.50, 0.67, p < 0.001), increased rest before the training preparation (HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.83, 0.96, p = 0.003) and increased dam parity (HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.77, 0.97, p = 0.01). The hazard of injury was increased with increasing age that training commenced (HR 1.13, 95% CI 1.06, 1.19, p < 0.001). Analyses were then repeated with the outcome of interest dorsal metacarpal disease. Factors that were protective against dorsal metacarpal disease and musculoskeletal injuries overall included: increased total cumulative distance (HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.82, 0.97, p = 0.001) and total cumulative days exercised as a gallop (HR 0.96, 95% CI 0.92, 0.99, p = 0.03), the number of the training preparations (HR 0.43, 95% CI 0.30, 0.61, p < 0.001). The age that training commenced was harmful for both dorsal metacarpal disease (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.07, 1.28, p < 0.001 and overall musculoskeletal injuries.). The use of non-ridden training modalities was protective for dorsal metacarpal disease (HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.81, 0.97, p = 0.008), but not musculoskeletal injuries overall. The male sex increased the hazard of DMD compared to females (HR 2.58, 95% CI 1.20, 5.56, p = 0.02), but not MSI overall. In summary, the hazard of musculoskeletal injury is greatest for 2-year-old horses that are born from uniparous mares, commence training at a later age, are in their first training preparation, have undertaken little high-speed exercise or had limited rest before their training preparation. The hazard of dorsal metacarpal disease is greatest for 2-year-old horses that are males, commence training at a later age, are in their first training preparation, have undertaken little high-speed exercise or had limited use of non-ridden training modalities. Close monitoring of these high-risk horses during their training program could substantially reduce the impact of MSI. Furthermore, an understanding of how training methodologies affect the hazard of MSI facilitates modification of training programs to mitigate the risk impact of injury. The strengths of this study include a large sample size, a well-defined study protocol and direct trainer interviews. The main limitation is the inherent susceptibility to survival bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie L Crawford
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Anna Finnane
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Ristan M Greer
- Torus Research, Bridgeman Downs, QLD, Australia.,Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Tamsin S Barnes
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Clive J C Phillips
- Curtin University Sustainability Policy (CUSP) Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | - Emma L Bishop
- Garrards Equine Veterinary Practice, Albion, QLD, Australia
| | - Nigel R Perkins
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Benjamin J Ahern
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
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4
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Crawford KL, Finnane A, Phillips CJC, Greer RM, Woldeyohannes SM, Perkins NR, Kidd LJ, Ahern BJ. The Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Injuries in Thoroughbred Racehorses in Queensland, Australia: How These Vary for Two-Year-Old and Older Horses and with Type of Injury. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020270. [PMID: 33494508 PMCID: PMC7910838 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Musculoskeletal injuries (MSI) continue to affect Thoroughbred racehorses internationally, despite over thirty years of research into this problem. Studies of risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries report inconsistent findings. Consequently, developing training strategies to mitigate the risk of MSI is difficult. We identified factors associated with particularly high odds of injury in this population of racehorses. Two-year-old horses from primiparous mares (first foals born) are at increased odds of MSI, particularly dorsal metacarpal disease (“shinsoreness”). Two-year-old horses that have had a total preparation length of between 10 and 14 weeks also have increased odds of injury. Horses of all ages that travelled a total distance of 2.4–3.8 km (12–19 furlongs) at a gallop (faster than 15 m/s; 13 s/furlong; 900 m/min; 55 km/h) in the last four weeks and horses three years and older that travelled 3.0–4.8 km (15–24 furlongs) at three-quarter pace and above (faster than 13 m/s; 15 s/furlong; 800 m/min; 48 km/h) also have increased odds of injury. We recommend that these horses should be monitored closely for impending signs of injury. We also observed a non-linear relationship between high-speed exercise and musculoskeletal injuries. This highlights the importance of high-speed exercise to enable tissue adaptation to training. Finally, in some situations, increasing the number of days worked at a slow pace may be more effective for preventing MSI, if horses are perceived at a higher risk, than resting the horse altogether. Early identification of horses at increased risk of injury and appropriate intervention could substantially reduce the impact of musculoskeletal injuries in Thoroughbred racehorses. Abstract Musculoskeletal injuries (MSI) continue to affect Thoroughbred racehorses internationally. There is a strong interest in developing training and management strategies to reduce their impact, however, studies of risk factors report inconsistent findings. Furthermore, many injuries and fatalities occur during training rather than during racing, yet most studies report racing data only. By combining racing and training data a larger exposure to risk factors and a larger number of musculoskeletal injuries are captured and the true effect of risk factors may be more accurately represented. Furthermore, modifications to reduce the impact of MSI are more readily implemented at the training level. Our study aimed to: (1) determine the risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries and whether these are different for two-year-old and older horses and (2) determine whether risk factors vary with type of injury. This was performed by repeating analyses by age category and injury type. Data from 202 cases and 202 matched controls were collected through weekly interviews with trainers and analysed using conditional logistic regression. Increasing dam parity significantly reduced the odds of injury in horses of all age groups because of the effect in two-year-old horses (odds ratio (OR) 0.08; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.02, 0.36; p < 0.001). Increasing total preparation length is associated with higher odds of injury in horses of all ages (OR 5.56; 95% CI 1.59, 19.46; p = 0.01), but particularly in two-year-old horses (OR 8.05; 95% CI 1.92, 33.76; p = 0.004). Increasing number of days exercised at a slow pace decreased the odds of injury in horses of all ages (OR 0.09; 95% CI 0.03, 0.28; p < 0.001). The distance travelled at three-quarter pace and above (faster than 13 m/s; 15 s/furlong; 800 m/min; 48 km/h) and the total distance travelled at a gallop (faster than 15 m/s; 13 s/furlong; 900 m/min; 55 km/h) in the past four weeks significantly affected the odds of injury. There was a non-linear association between high-speed exercise and injury whereby the odds of injury initially increased and subsequently decreased as accumulated high-speed exercise distance increased. None of the racing career and performance indices affected the odds of injury. We identified horses in this population that have particularly high odds of injury. Two-year-old horses from primiparous mares are at increased odds of injury, particularly dorsal metacarpal disease. Two-year-old horses that have had a total preparation length of between 10 and 14 weeks also have increased odds of injury. Horses of all ages that travelled a total distance of 2.4–3.8 km (12–19 furlongs) at a gallop in the last four weeks and horses three years and older that travelled 3.0–4.8 km (15–24 furlongs) at three-quarter pace and above also have increased odds of injury. We recommend that these horses should be monitored closely for impending signs of injury. Increasing the number of days worked at a slow pace may be more effective for preventing injury, if horses are perceived at a higher risk, than resting the horse altogether. Early identification of horses at increased risk and appropriate intervention could substantially reduce the impact of musculoskeletal injuries in Thoroughbred racehorses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie L. Crawford
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia; (S.M.W.); (N.R.P.); (L.J.K.); (B.J.A.)
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston 4006, Australia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Anna Finnane
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston 4006, Australia;
| | - Clive J. C. Phillips
- Curtin University Sustainability Policy (CUSP) Institute, Curtin University, Perth 6845, Australia;
| | - Ristan M. Greer
- Torus Research, Bridgeman Downs 4035, Australia;
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston 4006, Australia
| | - Solomon M. Woldeyohannes
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia; (S.M.W.); (N.R.P.); (L.J.K.); (B.J.A.)
| | - Nigel R. Perkins
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia; (S.M.W.); (N.R.P.); (L.J.K.); (B.J.A.)
| | - Lisa J. Kidd
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia; (S.M.W.); (N.R.P.); (L.J.K.); (B.J.A.)
| | - Benjamin J. Ahern
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia; (S.M.W.); (N.R.P.); (L.J.K.); (B.J.A.)
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5
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Schlecht SH, Martin CT, Ochocki DN, Nolan BT, Wojtys EM, Ashton-Miller JA. Morphology of Mouse Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Complex Changes Following Exercise During Pubertal Growth. J Orthop Res 2019; 37:1910-1919. [PMID: 31042312 PMCID: PMC6700741 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Postnatal development and the physiological loading response of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) complex (ACL proper, entheses, and bony morphology) is not well understood. We tested whether the ACL-complex of two inbred mouse strains that collectively encompass the musculoskeletal variation observed in humans would demonstrate significant morphological differences following voluntary cage-wheel running during puberty compared with normal cage activity controls. Female A/J and C57BL/6J (B6) 6-week-old mice were provided unrestricted access to a standard cage-wheel for 4 weeks. A/J-exercise mice showed a 6.3% narrower ACL (p = 0.64), and a 20.1% more stenotic femoral notch (p < 0.01) while B6-exercise mice showed a 12.3% wider ACL (p = 0.10), compared with their respective controls. Additionally, A/J-exercise mice showed a 5.3% less steep posterior medial tibial slope (p = 0.07) and an 8.8% less steep posterior lateral tibial slope (p = 0.07), while B6-exercise mice showed a 9.8% more steep posterior medial tibial slope (p < 0.01) than their respective controls. A/J-exercise mice also showed more reinforcement of the ACL tibial enthesis with a 20.4% larger area (p < 0.01) of calcified fibrocartilage distributed at a 29.2% greater depth (p = 0.02) within the tibial enthesis, compared with their controls. These outcomes suggest exercise during puberty significantly influences ACL-complex morphology and that inherent morphological differences between these mice, as observed in their less active genetically similar control groups, resulted in a divergent phenotypic outcome between mouse strains. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:1910-1919, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen H. Schlecht
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Colin T. Martin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Bonnie T. Nolan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Edward M. Wojtys
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Parkes RSV, Weller R, Pfau T, Witte TH. The Effect of Training on Stride Duration in a Cohort of Two-Year-Old and Three-Year-Old Thoroughbred Racehorses. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9070466. [PMID: 31336595 PMCID: PMC6680649 DOI: 10.3390/ani9070466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Objective gait monitoring via GPS and motion sensors is becoming increasingly popular with racehorse trainers. This has the potential to assist in early detection of lameness and performance issues. This study sought to identify normal changes in gait in a population of two and three-year-old racehorses in order to inform future studies. We found that horses decrease their stride duration at a given speed over time with training. Stride duration appears to increase with increased distance galloped, but this effect is reduced over a training season and presumably increased fitness, so this may serve as a useful indicator for fatigue. Abstract Objective gait monitoring is increasingly accessible to trainers. A more comprehensive understanding of ‘normal’ gait adaptations is required. Forty two-year-old thoroughbred racehorses were recruited when entering training and followed for 22 months. Gait analysis was performed by equipping each horse with an inertial measurement unit with inbuilt GPS (GPS-IMU) mounted on the dorsum. Horses were exercised as per their regular training regimen. Data were analysed using a linear mixed model. For two-year-old horses, there was a non-linear pattern of stride duration (SD) over time (p < 0.001) with SD decreasing initially and then ‘flattening off’ over time (linear and quadratic coefficients −0.29 ms/week and 0.006 ms/week2). Horses showed an increase in SD of 2.21 ms (p < 0.001) per 100 m galloped, and over time, SD decreased by 0.04 ms (p < 0.001) with each 100 m galloped per week. Three-year-old horses overall showed no change in SD over time (p = 0.52), but those that had a period of time off showed a decrease in SD of −0.59 ms per week (p = 0.02). They showed an increase in SD of 1.99 ms (p < 0.001) per 100 m galloped, and horses that had a period of time off showed an increase in stride duration of 1.05 ms per 100 m galloped (p = 0.01) compared to horses which did not have time off. Horses demonstrate an adaptation to high-speed exercise over time. SD decreases with training when other factors are controlled for in naïve horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S V Parkes
- Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
- Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - Renate Weller
- Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Thilo Pfau
- Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK
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7
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Miyata H, Itoh R, Sato F, Takebe N, Hada T, Tozaki T. Effect of Myostatin SNP on muscle fiber properties in male Thoroughbred horses during training period. J Physiol Sci 2018; 68:639-646. [PMID: 29058242 PMCID: PMC10717627 DOI: 10.1007/s12576-017-0575-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Variants of the Myostatin gene have been shown to have an influence on muscle hypertrophy phenotypes in a wide range of mammalian species. Recently, a Thoroughbred horse with a C-Allele at the g.66493737C/T single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) has been reported to be suited to short-distance racing. In this study, we examined the effect of the Myostatin SNP on muscle fiber properties in young Thoroughbred horses during a training period. To investigate the effect of the Myostatin SNP on muscle fiber before training, several mRNA expressions were relatively quantified in biopsy samples from the middle gluteal muscle of 27 untrained male Thoroughbred horses (1.5 years old) using real-time RT-PCR analysis. The remaining muscle samples were used for immunohistochemical analysis to determine the population and area of each fiber type. All measurements were revaluated in biopsy samples of the same horses after a 5-month period of conventional training. Although the expressions of Myostatin mRNA decreased in all SNP genotypes, a significant decrease was found in only the C/C genotype after training. While, expression of VEGFa, PGC1α, and SDHa mRNAs, which relate to the biogenesis of mitochondria and capillaries, was significantly higher (54-82%) in the T/T than the C/C genotypes after training. It is suggested that hypertrophy of muscle fiber is directly associated with a decrease in Myostatin mRNA expression in the C/C genotype, and that increased expressions of VEGFa, PGC1α, and SDHa in the T/T genotype might be indirectly caused by the Myostatin SNP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirofumi Miyata
- Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Sciences and Technology for Innovation, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida 1677-1, Yamaguchi, 753-8515, Japan.
| | - Rika Itoh
- Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Sciences and Technology for Innovation, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida 1677-1, Yamaguchi, 753-8515, Japan
| | - Fumio Sato
- Equine Breeding Science, Hidaka Training and Research Center, Japan Racing Association, 535-13, Nishicha, Urakawa, Hokkaido, 057-0171, Japan
| | - Naoya Takebe
- Equine Breeding Science, Hidaka Training and Research Center, Japan Racing Association, 535-13, Nishicha, Urakawa, Hokkaido, 057-0171, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Hada
- Equine Breeding Science, Hidaka Training and Research Center, Japan Racing Association, 535-13, Nishicha, Urakawa, Hokkaido, 057-0171, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 320-0851, Japan
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Spinella G, Valentini S, Pitti L, Carrillo JM, Rubio M, Sopena J, Santana A, Vilar JM. Ultrasonographic evaluation of cross-sectional area of tarsal ligaments in Standardbred Trotter Horses. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2018.1431241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Spinella
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell’Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Simona Valentini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell’Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Lidia Pitti
- Animal Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, Arucas, Spain
| | - Jose Maria Carrillo
- Department of Medicina y Cirugía Animal, University of CEU Cardenal Herrera, Cátedra García Cugat, Valencia, Spain
| | - Monica Rubio
- Department of Medicina y Cirugía Animal, University of CEU Cardenal Herrera, Cátedra García Cugat, Valencia, Spain
| | - Joaquín Sopena
- Department of Medicina y Cirugía Animal, University of CEU Cardenal Herrera, Cátedra García Cugat, Valencia, Spain
| | - Angelo Santana
- Mathematics Department, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Tafira, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Jose Manuel Vilar
- Animal Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, Arucas, Spain
- Instituto Universitario de Investigaciones Biomédicas y Sanitarias, Animal Pathology Department, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
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9
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Böl M, Leichsenring K, Siebert T. Effects of Growth on Muscle, Tendon, and Aponeurosis Tissues in Rabbit Shank Musculature. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2017; 300:1123-1136. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.23538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 10/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Markus Böl
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Solid Mechanics Technische Universität Braunschweig; Braunschweig 38106 Germany
| | - Kay Leichsenring
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Solid Mechanics Technische Universität Braunschweig; Braunschweig 38106 Germany
| | - Tobias Siebert
- Department of Sport and Motion Science; University of Stuttgart; Stuttgart 70569 Germany
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10
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Korosue K, Endo Y, Murase H, Ishimaru M, Nambo Y, Sato F. The cross-sectional area changes in digital flexor tendons and suspensory ligament in foals by ultrasonographic examination. Equine Vet J 2014; 47:548-52. [PMID: 25124717 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2013] [Accepted: 08/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY Flexural deformities are common conditions of growing horses and are suggested to have a relationship with the contraction of musculotendinous units. However, limited studies have documented the changes in each tendon and ligament in the metacarpal region with age. OBJECTIVES To investigate the changes in the cross-sectional area (CSA) of each tendon and ligament in the metacarpal region with age by ultrasonographic examination. STUDY DESIGN Longitudinal study of foals from Day 1 to age 24 months. METHODS The CSA of the superficial digital flexor tendon, deep digital flexor tendon, accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon and suspensory ligament was measured by ultrasonographic examination at monthly intervals from Day 1 to age 24 months in 7 Thoroughbred foals. RESULTS Changes in superficial digital flexor CSA in all regions were larger than those of other structures from 10 months to 15 months. The suspensory ligament CSA was significantly larger than those of other structures on Day 1 in both the region of suspensory origin (RSO) and region of suspensory body (RSBO). This condition continued until 2 months in the RSO and until 5 months in the RSBO. The changes in deep digital flexor CSA were larger than those of other structures from 2 to 5 months in both the RSO and RSBO. CONCLUSIONS The rate of change in each structure varies with age. Thus, the functional adaptation with age that takes place may differ among structures because the primary function of each structure differs.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Korosue
- Hidaka Training and Research Center, Japan Racing Association, Urakawa-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Y Endo
- Hidaka Training and Research Center, Japan Racing Association, Urakawa-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - H Murase
- Hidaka Training and Research Center, Japan Racing Association, Urakawa-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - M Ishimaru
- Hidaka Training and Research Center, Japan Racing Association, Urakawa-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Y Nambo
- Hidaka Training and Research Center, Japan Racing Association, Urakawa-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - F Sato
- Hidaka Training and Research Center, Japan Racing Association, Urakawa-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
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11
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Rich T, Patterson-Kane JC. Science-in-brief: What is needed to prevent tendon injury in equine athletes? A conversation between researchers and industry stakeholders. Equine Vet J 2014; 46:393-8. [DOI: 10.1111/evj.12269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- T. Rich
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation; University of Glasgow; Glasgow UK
| | - J. C. Patterson-Kane
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation; University of Glasgow; Glasgow UK
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12
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Waugh CM, Korff T, Fath F, Blazevich AJ. Effects of resistance training on tendon mechanical properties and rapid force production in prepubertal children. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2014; 117:257-66. [PMID: 24903920 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00325.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Children develop lower levels of muscle force, and at slower rates, than adults. Although strength training in children is expected to reduce this differential, a synchronous adaptation in the tendon must be achieved to ensure forces continue to be transmitted to the skeleton with efficiency while minimizing the risk of strain-related tendon injury. We hypothesized that resistance training (RT) would alter tendon mechanical properties in children concomitantly with changes in force production characteristics. Twenty prepubertal children (age 8.9 ± 0.3 yr) were equally divided into control (nontraining) and experimental (training) groups. The training group completed a 10-wk RT intervention consisting of 2-3 sets of 8-15 plantar flexion contractions performed twice weekly on a recumbent calf-raise machine. Achilles tendon properties (cross-sectional area, elongation, stress, strain, stiffness, and Young's modulus), electromechanical delay (EMD; time between the onset of muscle activity and force), rate of force development (RFD; slope of the force-time curve), and rate of electromyographic (EMG) increase (REI; slope of the EMG time curve) were measured before and after RT. Tendon stiffness and Young's modulus increased significantly after RT in the experimental group only (∼29% and ∼25%, respectively); all other tendon properties were not significantly altered, although there were mean decreases in both peak tendon strain and strain at a given force level (14% and 24%, respectively; not significant) which may have implications for tendon injury risk and muscle fiber mechanics. A decrease of ∼13% in EMD was found after RT for the experimental group, which paralleled the increase in tendon stiffness (r = -0.59); however, RFD and REI were unchanged. The present data show that the Achilles tendon adapts to RT in prepubertal children and is paralleled by a change in EMD, although the magnitude of this change did not appear to be sufficient to influence RFD. These findings are of importance within the context of the efficiency and execution of movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Waugh
- Centre for Sports Medicine and Human Performance, Brunel University, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - T Korff
- Centre for Sports Medicine and Human Performance, Brunel University, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - F Fath
- Centre for Sports Medicine and Human Performance, Brunel University, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - A J Blazevich
- Centre for Sports Medicine and Human Performance, Brunel University, London, United Kingdom; and Centre for Exercise and Sports Science Research, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, Australia
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13
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Lindner A, Köster A. Cross sectional area of forelimb metacarpal region flexor tendons in horses of different breeds and age. COMPARATIVE EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.3920/cep130028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
There are few studies on the effects of age within breeds on cross sectional area (CSA) of flexor tendons in horses. This study was designed to evaluate the relationship between age and the CSA of the superficial flexor tendon (SDFT), the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) and its accessory ligament (AL-DDFT) of both forelimbs in horses utilising ultrasound. Ages of the horses ranged from 2 years to aged, and the breeds evaluated were Thoroughbred (TB), Standardbred (SB), Quarterhorse (QH) and German Warmblood Riding horse (WB). CSAs were measured with ultrasound at 4 cm intervals, starting 4 cm from the distal border of the accessory carpal bone down to the metacarpophalangeal joint. The CSA of the SDFT in 3-year-old and older TB, QH and WBs was smaller than in the 2-year-olds (all P<0.001) and did not differ between 3-year-olds and older horses (P≯0.05). In comparison, the CSA of the SDFT in 2-year-old and 3-year-old SBs was smaller than in the horses older than 3 years (P<0.05 among age groups). The 2-year-olds had larger CSA of the DDFTs than the 3-year-olds (P<0.01), and the CSA was also larger in the older horses of all breeds (P<0.01). However, the 3-year-old QH and SBs had smaller CSAs of the DDFT than the horses older than 3 years of age, (P<0.001), but interestingly the CSA was not different in the TB and WBs based on age (P≯0.05). The CSA of the AL-DDFT in the left forelimb was smaller than in the right forelimb (P<0.01) of all horses. The results of this study show that differential effects exist between age and within breeds on the CSA of the SDFT, DDFT and AL-DDFT, indicating that training and management may play a role, in addition to genetics, in the CSA of the metacarpal region flexor tendons of horses. The data on the CSAs of the SDFT, DDFT and AL-DDFT in WB, QH and SBs provides additional physiological references for these breeds to compliment the CSA data previously published for other breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Lindner
- Arbeitsgruppe Pferd, Heinrich-Roettgen-Str. 20, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - A. Köster
- Arbeitsgruppe Pferd, Heinrich-Roettgen-Str. 20, 52428 Jülich, Germany
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14
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Franchi M, Torricelli P, Giavaresi G, Fini M. Role of moderate exercising on Achilles tendon collagen crimping patterns and proteoglycans. Connect Tissue Res 2013; 54:267-74. [PMID: 23758268 DOI: 10.3109/03008207.2013.807808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the morphological and morphometric changes in the collagen crimping pattern of Achilles tendon and metabolism/expression of tenocytes explanted from tendons of running (RUN) and sedentary (SED) rats were investigated to assess the effects of 12 weeks moderate running exercise. The number, the top angle width and the base length of each crimp in three different regions (proximal, central and distal) of RUN and SED tendons were measured with a polarized light microscope. The most significant morphometric differences in the crimps were detectable in the central region of the RUN tendons. In this region, crimps were fewer, larger and more flattened than those of other regions as a consequence of a functional adaptation of extracellular matrix to running, in order to increase tendon stiffness and force transmission efficiency. Conversely, the top angle width of the crimps reduced in proximal and distal regions of the RUN tendons, suggesting that these crimps might act as more reactive mechanical springs, able to store and improve the release of the stored strain energy in most loaded regions. Tenocytes explanted from Achilles tendons of both RUN and SED groups were cultured. Running influenced tenocytes which showed a significant increase in collagen type-I synthesis and proteoglycans production, suggesting enhancement of the loading transmission efficiency and facilitate inter-fibril and inter-fiber sliding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Franchi
- Department for Life Quality Studies, Faculty of Exercise and Sport Sciences, University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
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15
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Tendon structure changes after maximal exercise in the Thoroughbred horse: use of ultrasound tissue characterisation to detect in vivo tendon response. Vet J 2012; 194:338-42. [PMID: 22658820 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2012.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2011] [Revised: 04/11/2012] [Accepted: 04/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Investigations into the response of the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) of the Thoroughbred horse to mechanical stimuli have been limited to in vitro cell culture studies focused primarily on gene expression of critical matrix proteins. It is uncertain how well in vitro outcomes translate to the tendon of the horse during exercise. The current study examined changes in tendon structure in response to maximal exercise using ultrasound tissue characterisation (UTC) to scan the SDFT prior to and after competitive racing. UTC uses contiguous transverse ultrasound images to assess the dynamics of the echopattern, which has a close relationship with changes in the 3-D ultra-structure of the tendon. Using UTC, it was possible to detect subtle changes in the dynamics of the echopattern, with a reduction in pixels that represent aligned and integer collagen tendon bundles on days 1 and 2 post-race when compared to pre-race (P<0.05). The echopattern of these tendons returned to baseline on day 3. This change in echopattern was not seen in control horses. It was concluded that short-term changes in the SDFT following maximal exercise could be detected using UTC.
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16
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CLEGG PD. Musculoskeletal disease and injury, now and in the future. Part 2: Tendon and ligament injuries. Equine Vet J 2012; 44:371-5. [DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2012.00563.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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17
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Borgia LA, Valberg SJ, Essen-Gustavsson B. Differences in the metabolic properties of gluteus medius and superficial digital flexor muscles and the effect of water treadmill training in the horse. Equine Vet J 2011:665-70. [PMID: 21059078 DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2010.00229.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY Flexor tendon injury may be due to flexor muscle fatigue, contributing to fetlock joint hyperextension and tendon damage. A water treadmill provides resistance training on flexor tendon muscles, which might reduce the risk of tendon injury. OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of water treadmill training on the properties of the gluteal and superficial digital flexor (SDF) muscles and on cardiocirculatory response to a standardised exercise test. METHODS Five healthy unfit horses were trained on a water treadmill for 5 days/week for 4 weeks, starting with 5 min/day increasing to 20 min/day. Before and after the water treadmill training, an incremental SET was performed on a land treadmill to determine velocity at a heart rate 200 beats/min (V(200)) and resting gluteal and SDF muscle biopsies were obtained for biochemical analyses. RESULTS There was no measurable difference in resting concentrations of gluteal or SDF muscle glycogen, lactate, ATP or glucose-6-phosphate (G6P), or activities of citrate synthase (CS), 3-hydroxyacyl CoA dehydrogenase (HAD) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) after training and no change in V(200), Lactate, glycogen, G6P and ATP concentrations were 50% lower and type 1 fibres 30% higher in SDF compared to gluteal muscles. CS and HAD activities were similar between SDF and gluteal, while LDH was lower in the SDF muscle. CONCLUSIONS A more strenuous water treadmill conditioning protocol may be needed to induce a training effect in gluteal and SDF muscle and heart rate response. The low substrate concentrations and oxidative capacity of SDF may predispose this muscle to catastrophic fatigue during maximal exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Borgia
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, USA.
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18
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Vilar JM, Santana A, Espinosa J, Spinella G. Cross-sectional area of the tendons of the tarsal region in Standardbred trotter horses. Equine Vet J 2011; 43:235-9. [PMID: 21592221 DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2010.00141.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY The assessment of a normal range for cross-sectional area (CSA) of tendons in the tarsal region is important in order to use them as reference values in the identification of pathological changes of dimensions. OBJECTIVES To provide normal reference values for the CSA of the tendons of the tarsus of Standardbred trotter horses (STH) by means of ultrasonography. METHODS Transverse echographic images of the tendons were obtained at different levels proximodistally; these images were digitised and CSA values (mean ± s.d.) were obtained for each structure. RESULTS The largest structure corresponded with the lateral digital flexor/caudal tibial tendon complex at Level 1 and the smallest was the medial digital flexor tendon at Level 4. Almost all tendons showed a slight decreasing in their CSA when crossing the tarsus. CONCLUSIONS The normal CSA values of tendinous structures in the tarsal region of the STH are reported. These data could be used as anatomical references. POTENTIAL RELEVANCE The establishment of reference values could serve as a tool to discriminate between normal and abnormal dimensions of tarsal tendons in STH. Other horse breeds should need their own reference values.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Vilar
- Animal Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria University, Arucas.
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19
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Roberts TJ, Azizi E. Flexible mechanisms: the diverse roles of biological springs in vertebrate movement. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 214:353-61. [PMID: 21228194 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.038588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 230] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The muscles that power vertebrate locomotion are associated with springy tissues, both within muscle and in connective tissue elements such as tendons. These springs share in common the same simple action: they stretch and store elastic strain energy when force is applied to them and recoil to release energy when force decays. Although this elastic action is simple, it serves a diverse set of functions, including metabolic energy conservation, amplification of muscle power output, attenuation of muscle power input, and rapid mechanical feedback that may aid in stability. In recent years, our understanding of the mechanisms and importance of biological springs in locomotion has advanced significantly, and it has been demonstrated that elastic mechanisms are essential for the effective function of the muscle motors that power movement. Here, we review some recent advances in our understanding of elastic mechanisms, with an emphasis on two proposed organizing principles. First, we review the evidence that the various functions of biological springs allow the locomotor system to operate beyond the bounds of intrinsic muscle properties, including metabolic and mechanical characteristics, as well as motor control processes. Second, we propose that an energy-based framework is useful for interpreting the diverse functions of series-elastic springs. In this framework, the direction and timing of the flow of energy between the body, the elastic element and the contracting muscle determine the function served by the elastic mechanism (e.g. energy conservation vs power amplification). We also review recent work demonstrating that structures such as tendons remodel more actively and behave more dynamically than previously assumed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Roberts
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA.
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20
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Young NJ, Becker DL, Fleck RA, Goodship AE, Patterson-Kane JC. Maturational alterations in gap junction expression and associated collagen synthesis in response to tendon function. Matrix Biol 2009; 28:311-23. [PMID: 19481603 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2009.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2008] [Revised: 04/15/2009] [Accepted: 05/21/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Energy-storing tendons including the equine superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) contribute to energetic efficiency of locomotion at high-speed gaits, but consequently operate close to their physiological strain limits. Significant evidence of exercise-induced microdamage has been found in the SDFT which appears not to exhibit functional adaptation; the degenerative changes have not been repaired by the tendon fibroblasts (tenocytes), and are proposed to accumulate and predispose the tendon to rupture during normal athletic activity. The anatomically opposing common digital extensor tendon (CDET) functions only to position the digit, experiencing significantly lower levels of strain and is rarely damaged by exercise. A number of studies have indicated that tenocytes in the adult SDFT are less active in collagen synthesis and turnover than those in the immature SDFT or the CDET. Gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) is known to be necessary for strain-induced collagen synthesis by tenocytes. We postulate therefore that expression of GJ proteins connexin 43 and 32 (Cx43; Cx32), GJIC and associated collagen expression levels are high in the SDFT and CDET of immature horses, when the SDFT in particular grows significantly in cross-sectional area, but reduce significantly during maturation in the energy-storing tendon only. The hypothesis was tested using tissue from the SDFT and CDET of foetuses, foals, and young adult Thoroughbred horses. Cellularity and the total area of both Cx43 and Cx32 plaques/mm(2) of tissue reduced significantly with maturation in each tendon. However, the total Cx43 plaque area per tenocyte significantly increased in the adult CDET. Evidence of recent collagen synthesis in the form of levels of neutral salt-soluble collagen, and collagen type I mRNA was significantly less in the adult compared with the immature SDFT; procollagen type I amino-propeptide (PINP) and procollagen type III amino-propeptide (PIIINP) levels per mm(2) of tissue and PINP expression per tenocyte also decreased with maturation in the SDFT. In the CDET PINP and PIIINP expression per tenocyte increased in the adult, and exceeded those in the adult SDFT. The level of PINP per mm(2) was greater in the adult CDET than in the SDFT despite the higher cellularity of the latter tendon. In the adult SDFT, levels of PIIINP were greater than those of PINP, suggesting relatively greater synthesis of a weaker form of collagen previously associated with microdamage. Tenocytes in monolayers showed differences in Cx43 and Cx32 expression compared with those in tissue, however there were age- and tendon-specific phenotypic differences, with a longer time for 50% recovery of fluorescence after photobleaching in adult SDFT cells compared with those from the CDET and immature SDFT. As cellularity reduces following growth in the SDFT, a failure of the remaining tenocytes to show a compensatory increase in GJ expression and collagen synthesis may explain why cell populations are not able to respond to exercise and to repair microdamage in some adult athletes. Enhancing GJIC in mature energy-storing tendons could provide a strategy to increase the cellular synthetic and reparative capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Young
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, United Kingdom.
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21
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Smith RK, Goodship AE. The Effect of Early Training and the Adaptation and Conditioning of Skeletal Tissues. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 2008; 24:37-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2007.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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22
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Kasashima Y, Takahashi T, Birch HL, Smith RKW, Goodship AE. Can exercise modulate the maturation of functionally different immature tendons in the horse? J Appl Physiol (1985) 2008; 104:416-22. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00379.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tendons can be considered in two functional groups, those contributing to energetics of locomotion and those acting solely to position the limb. The energy-storing tendons in both human and equine athletes have a high frequency of injury with similar pathophysiology. In previous studies, high-intensity exercise appears to induce a disruption of the matrix rather than functional adaptation in adults. Here we explore the hypothesis that the introduction of controlled exercise during growth would result in an adaptive response without deleterious effects. Young horses were given a controlled exercise program similar to that previously shown to induce matrix changes in energy-storing tendons of skeletally mature animals. The tendons were assessed in relation to mechanical properties, molecular composition, and morphology. Results showed a significant increase in cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) in the positional tendon but not in the energy-storing tendon. Other matrix properties and mechanical properties were not significantly changed. While the imposition of high-strain-rate exercise in immature horses failed to augment the development of the energy-storing tendon over and above that induced by normal pasture exercise, it did not induce deleterious changes, supporting an earlier introduction of athletic training in horses.
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23
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Abstract
Tendon properties contribute to the complex interaction of the central nervous system, muscle-tendon unit and bony structures to produce joint movement. Until recently limited information on human tendon behaviour in vivo was available; however, novel methodological advancements have enabled new insights to be gained in this area. The present review summarizes the progress made with respect to human tendon and aponeurosis function in vivo, and how tendons adapt to ageing, loading and unloading conditions. During low tensile loading or with passive lengthening not only the muscle is elongated, but also the tendon undergoes significant length changes, which may have implications for reflex responses. During active loading, the length change of the tendon far exceeds that of the aponeurosis, indicating that the aponeurosis may more effectively transfer force onto the tendon, which lengthens and stores elastic energy subsequently released during unloading, in a spring-like manner. In fact, data recently obtained in vivo confirm that, during walking, the human Achilles tendon provides elastic strain energy that can decrease the energy cost of locomotion. Also, new experimental evidence shows that, contrary to earlier beliefs, the metabolic activity in human tendon is remarkably high and this affords the tendon the ability to adapt to changing demands. With ageing and disuse there is a reduction in tendon stiffness, which can be mitigated with resistance exercises. Such adaptations seem advantageous for maintaining movement rapidity, reducing tendon stress and risk of injury, and possibly, for enabling muscles to operate closer to the optimum region of the length-tension relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Peter Magnusson
- Institute of Sports Medicine, Copenhagen, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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24
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Stanley RL, Fleck RA, Becker DL, Goodship AE, Ralphs JR, Patterson-Kane JC. Gap junction protein expression and cellularity: comparison of immature and adult equine digital tendons. J Anat 2007; 211:325-34. [PMID: 17848160 PMCID: PMC2375813 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2007.00781.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/07/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Injury to the energy-storing superficial digital flexor tendon is common in equine athletes and is age-related. Tenocytes in the superficial digital flexor tendon of adult horses appear to have limited ability to respond adaptively to exercise or prevent the accumulation of strain-induced microdamage. It has been suggested that conditioning exercise should be introduced during the growth period, when tenocytes may be more responsive to increased quantities or intensities of mechanical strain. Tenocytes are linked into networks by gap junctions that allow coordination of synthetic activity and facilitate strain-induced collagen synthesis. We hypothesised that there are reductions in cellular expression of the gap junction proteins connexin (Cx) 43 and 32 during maturation and ageing of the superficial digital flexor tendon that do not occur in the non-injury-prone common digital extensor tendon. Cryosections from the superficial digital flexor tendon and common digital extensor tendon of 5 fetuses, 5 foals (1-6 months), 5 young adults (2-7 years) and 5 old horses (18-33 years) were immunofluorescently labelled and quantitative confocal laser microscopy was performed. Expression of Cx43 and Cx32 protein per tenocyte was significantly higher in the fetal group compared with all other age groups in both tendons. The density of tenocytes was found to be highest in immature tissue. Higher levels of cellularity and connexin protein expression in immature tendons are likely to relate to requirements for tissue remodelling and growth. However, if further studies demonstrate that this correlates with greater gap junctional communication efficiency and synthetic responsiveness to mechanical strain in immature compared with adult tendons, it could support the concept of early introduction of controlled exercise as a means of increasing resistance to later injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael L Stanley
- Department of Pathology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK.
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25
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Abstract
Horses can gallop within hours of birth, and may begin training for athletic competition while still growing. This review cites studies on the effects of exercise on bone, tendon and articular cartilage, as detected by clinical and research imaging techniques, tissue biochemical analysis and microscopy of various kinds. For bone, alterations in bone mineral content, mineral density and the morphology of the mineralized tissue are the most common end-points. Apparent bone density increases slightly after athletic training in the cortex, but substantially in the major load paths of the epiphyses and cuboidal bones, despite the lower material density of the new bone, which is deposited subperiosteally and on internal surfaces without prior osteoclastic resorption. With training of greater intensity, adaptive change is supervened by patho-anatomical change in the form of microdamage and frank lesions. In tendon, collagen fibril diameter distribution changes significantly during growth, but not after early training. The exact amount and type of protracted training that does cause reduction in mass average diameter (an early sign of progressive microdamage) have not been defined. Training is associated with an increase in the cross-sectional area of some tendons, possibly owing to slightly greater water content of non-collagenous or newly synthesized matrix. Early training may be associated with greater thickness of hyaline but not calcified articular cartilage, at least in some sites. The age at which adaptation of cartilage to biomechanical influences can occur may thus extend beyond very early life. However, cartilage appears to be the most susceptible of the three tissues to pathological alteration. The effect of training exercise on the anatomical or patho-anatomical features of connective tissue structures is affected by the timing, type and amount of natural or imposed exercise during growth and development which precedes the training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elwyn C Firth
- Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biological Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
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26
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Abstract
Despite the greater prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in obese adults, the consequences of childhood obesity on the development and function of the musculoskeletal system have received comparatively little attention within the literature. Of the limited number of studies performed to date, the majority have focused on the impact of childhood obesity on skeletal structure and alignment, and to a lesser extent its influence on clinical tests of motor performance including muscular strength, balance and locomotion. Although collectively these studies imply that the functional and structural limitations imposed by obesity may result in aberrant lower limb mechanics and the potential for musculoskeletal injury, empirical verification is currently lacking. The delineation of the effects of childhood obesity on musculoskeletal structure in terms of mass, adiposity, anthropometry, metabolic effects and physical inactivity, or their combination, has not been established. More specifically, there is a lack of research regarding the effect of childhood obesity on the properties of connective tissue structures, such as tendons and ligaments. Given the global increase in childhood obesity, there is a need to ascertain the consequences of persistent obesity on musculoskeletal structure and function. A better understanding of the implications of childhood obesity on the development and function of the musculoskeletal system would assist in the provision of more meaningful support in the prevention, treatment and management of the musculoskeletal consequences of the condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Wearing
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, ATN Centre for Metabolic Fitness and School of Human Movement Studies, Queensland University of Technology, Victoria Park Road, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059, Australia
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27
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Dowling BA, Dart AJ. Mechanical and functional properties of the equine superficial digital flexor tendon. Vet J 2005; 170:184-92. [PMID: 16129339 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2004.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2004] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The in vitro and in vivo mechanical properties of the superficial digital flexor tendon have been described. To date the focus has been on single load to failure testing, however refined in vivo methods may prove useful to evaluate the effects of treatment and exercise on tendons. During maximal exercise, the adult superficial digital flexor tendon operates close to its functional limits with a narrow biomechanical safety margin. This combined with exercise and age associated microdamage, and a limited adaptive ability may increase the risk of fatigue failure. Studies evaluating treatment regimens for tendonitis have focused on repair and regeneration and yielded varying results. It would appear that the superficial digital flexor tendon has a limited ability if any to adapt positively to exercise after maturity. In contrast, the foal's superficial digital flexor tendon may have a greater adaptive ability and may respond to an appropriate exercise regimen to produce a more functionally adapted tendon. Recent studies have shown that foals allowed free pasture exercise develop a larger, stronger, more elastic tendon compared to foals that were confined or subjected to a training program. Effects on the non-collagenous matrix appear to be responsible for these differences. In contrast, training or excess exercise may have permanent detrimental effects on the biomechanical and functional properties of the superficial digital flexor tendon in the foal. The implication is that the determination of optimum exercise intensity and timing, and the role of the non-collagenous matrix in tendon physiology in the young horse may hold the key to developing tendons more capable of resisting injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A Dowling
- University Veterinary Centre Camden, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Werombi Road, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
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Muraoka T, Muramatsu T, Fukunaga T, Kanehisa H. Geometric and elastic properties of in vivo human Achilles tendon in young adults. Cells Tissues Organs 2005; 178:197-203. [PMID: 15812147 DOI: 10.1159/000083731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to clarify whether the major determinant of the extendibility of the Achilles tendon in young adults was the geometric properties of the tendon. The subjects were 38 healthy young adults (26 male, 12 female; 26 +/- 5 years). The subjects developed maximum voluntary isometric plantar flexion (MVIP) torque while the displacement of the distal myotendinous junction of the medial gastrocnemius and ankle joint rotation was determined using a B-mode ultrasonograph and a goniometer, respectively. The tendon force (F) was calculated from MVIP torque and the moment arm of Achilles tendon. The elongation of the Achilles tendon (delta X) was obtained from the tendon displacements and ankle joint rotation. Achilles tendon stiffness (k) was calculated by dividing F by delta X. The specific stiffness of the Achilles tendon (k(s)) was obtained from k normalized to the Achilles tendon length at rest. The cross-sectional area of the Achilles tendon (CSA) was measured at 5, 10, and 15% of the lower leg length proximal to the insertion of the Achilles tendon using a B-mode ultrasonography. The results showed that more distal portion of the Achilles tendon had a larger CSA, and that there was a strong correlation between the average and minimum Achilles tendon CSA. delta X was 9.9 +/- 2.5 mm. k and k(s) were 330 +/- 77 N/mm and 63 +/- 20 kN, respectively. No significant correlation was seen between CSA and k(s) (r = 0.15, p > 0.05). It was suggested that a stiffer Achilles tendon did not necessarily have a thicker shape, which might indicate that the major determinant of the extendibility of the Achilles tendon was not its geometric properties in young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuro Muraoka
- Laboratory of Sports Sciences, Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, Japan.
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Edwards LJ, Goodship AE, Birch HL, Patterson-Kane JC. Effect of exercise on age-related changes in collagen fibril diameter distributions in the common digital extensor tendons of young horses. Am J Vet Res 2005; 66:564-8. [PMID: 15900933 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.2005.66.564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether specific treadmill exercise regimens would accelerate age-related changes in collagen fibril diameter distributions in the common digital extensor tendon (CDET) of the forelimbs of young Thoroughbreds. ANIMALS 24 female Thoroughbreds. PROCEDURE Horses were trained for 18 weeks (6 horses; short term) or 18 months (5 horses; long term) on a high-speed treadmill; 2 age-matched control groups (6 horses/group) performed walking exercise only. Horses were (mean +/- SD) 24 +/- 1 months and 39 +/- 1 months old at termination of the short-term and long-term regimens, respectively. Midmetacarpal CDET specimens were obtained and processed for transmission electron microscopy. Diameter and area of at least 1,000 collagen fibrils/specimen were measured by use of computerized image analysis. Mass-average diameter (MAD) of collagen fibrils and collagen fibril index were calculated for each horse. RESULTS Collagen fibril MAD for the older horses was significantly less than that for the younger horses. Exercise did not significantly affect fibril diameter or distributions in either age group, and collagen fibril index did not differ significantly between groups. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Age-related reduction in collagen fibril MAD agreed with findings for other tendons and species. Training did not accelerate age-related change in the CDET in contrast to a reported decrease in collagen fibril MAD in the superficial digital flexor tendon of horses trained long term. Our results support the concept that the functionally distinct nature of the CDET and superficial digital flexor tendon in horses results in fundamentally different responses to high-speed exercise regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey J Edwards
- Department of Pathology, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK
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Perkins NR, Rogers CW, Firth EC, Anderson BH. Musculoskeletal responses of 2-year-old Thoroughbred horses to early training. 3.In vivoultrasonographic assessment of the cross-sectional area and echogenicity of the superficial digital flexor tendon. N Z Vet J 2004; 52:280-4. [PMID: 15768124 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2004.36440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM To determine if the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) of young Thoroughbred horses changed in size and echogenicity in association with early race training. METHODS Cross-sectional area (CSA) and echogenicity were determined ultrasonographically at five levels of the SDFT of the forelimbs of 2-year-old fillies (n=14), corresponding to 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 cm distal to the accessory carpal bone (DACB). Measurements were made before and after a 13-week period in which a trained group of seven horses was compared with another group of seven untrained horses. RESULTS Level below the accessory carpal bone had a significant effect on CSA and Level 8 was smaller than all other levels except Level 12, while Level 12 was smaller than Levels 4 and 20 but not different from Levels 8 and 16. There was a significant interaction between level and time due to effects observed at Level 8. The CSA at Level 8 measured pre-training was different from that of Levels 4 and 20 in both pre- and post-training groups (p<0.05), but when measured post-training was not different from any other measurement. There was also a significant interaction between treatment group and time. There was no difference between CSA for the untrained and trained groups at the pre-training observation (p=0.9), but post-training the CSA (pooled over all levels) in trained horses was significantly larger than that of the untrained horses both post-training (p=0.019) and pre-training (p=0.034), and was not different from the pre-training CSA recorded in the trained group (p=0.29). Treatment group had no effect on echogenicity (p=0.43), while echogenicity was less at the end of the trial in both trained and untrained horses (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Early training for racing was associated with an increase in mean CSA of the SDFT. Other factors such as age and maturity may play a role in limiting this increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- N R Perkins
- Epicentre, Institute of Veterinary Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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31
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Firth EC, Rogers CW, Anderson BH. Musculoskeletal responses of 2-year-old Thoroughbred horses to early training. 4. Morphometric, microscopic and biomechanical properties of the digital tendons of the forelimb. N Z Vet J 2004; 52:285-92. [PMID: 15768125 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2004.36441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM To determine the weight, volume, density and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the digital flexor tendons, common digital extensor tendon (CDET) and suspensory ligament (SL) of the forelimb of young Thoroughbred horses in early training, and to assess the response to a training programme of known parameters of superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) tissue at mid-metacarpal level. METHODS The tendons of seven 2-year-old Thoroughbred horses in training were inspected, transected into segments of known length, and compared with those from seven untrained horses matched for age, sex and breed. The weight, volume, density and CSA of each segment, and the crimp angle, histological features, and biomechanical ultimate stress and stiffness of tendon samples from the mid-metacarpal region of the SDFT were determined. RESULTS There was no macroscopic evidence of swelling or discolouration in any of the tendon segments or cut surfaces. The volumes of SDFT and CDET segments of horses in the trained group were significantly greater than those in the untrained group (p=0.036 and p=0.039, respectively). A greater increase in volume than weight resulted in a lower density in the SDFT but not CDET in trained compared with untrained horses (p=0.038). CSA of these two tendons was significantly greater in the trained group (p=0.002 and 0.036, respectively), the percentage increase being greater in the CDET than the SDFT. The number of tenocytes at four sites in the mid-metacarpal SDFT region was less in trained than untrained horses (p=0.025). There was no histological evidence of inflammation, and no difference in crimp angle between groups. There was no significant between-group difference in stiffness or ultimate stress of tendon strips. CONCLUSIONS Volume and CSA of the SDFT and CDET were larger in trained than untrained horses. The SDFT was less dense in the trained group. Because no evidence of tendonitis was detected and training appeared to have no significant effect on crimp angle or biomechanical properties of tendon strips, the size and density changes were presumed to be adaptive and induced by the training. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Although evident in this in vitro study, the detection of adaptive from initial pathological increase in size of the SDFT is likely to be difficult in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- E C Firth
- Institute of Veterinary Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Firth EC, Rogers CW, Perkins NR, Anderson BH, Grace ND. Musculoskeletal responses of 2-year-old Thoroughbred horses to early training. 1. Study design, and clinical, nutritional, radiological and histological observations. N Z Vet J 2004; 52:261-71. [PMID: 15768122 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2004.36438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This is the first in a series of papers reporting studies in 2-year-old Thoroughbred racehorses that aimed to determine the response of musculoskeletal tissues to early training on grass and sand racetracks. In this paper, the experimental set-up of the whole study is described, and nutritional, workload, and clinical, radiographic and pathological outcomes are reported, including semi-quantitative assessment of macroscopic changes in articular cartilage. METHODS The study group comprised 14 two-year-old Thoroughbred fillies reared entirely at pasture. Of these, seven were selected by a licensed racehorse trainer to undergo a 4-week period of initial training in which they were taught to accept saddle and rider, followed by a 13-week period of flatrace training at a racetrack (Weeks 1-13); the other seven fillies were confined to large grass enclosures and were not trained. Nutrient, including macro- and trace-element intakes were estimated. Distances cantered or galloped and average velocities were quantified for the trained horses. All horses were observed daily, weighed approximately weekly, and underwent a clinical lameness examination at Weeks 5, 9 and 13. Distal forelimbs were radiographed prior to Week 1, during Weeks 7-8, and again at the end of the study, when macroscopic changes in articular cartilage of the proximal surface of the proximal phalanx were also scored after staining with India ink. RESULTS Dietary intakes met or exceeded recommended requirements for all nutrients except sodium, which was low in the trained horses. Bodyweight increased throughout the study in the untrained horses, and increased until Week 7 and then decreased slightly in the trained horses. Mean velocity data were used to define three stages of the training programme: Stage 1 comprised canter in Weeks 1-4; Stage 2 comprised canter in Weeks 5-8; and Stage 3 comprised canter in Weeks 9-13 and galloping twice weekly. Four of seven horses completed training. These covered a mean distance of 179.2 km at mean velocities (excluding gallops) of 7.63 m/sec (SD 0.58), 8.99 m/sec (SD 0.56), and 8.43 m/sec (SD 0.74) for Stages 1-3, respectively, and galloped 4.45 km at 14.4 (SD 0.1) m/sec. The three horses that did not complete training became lame in Weeks 9, 10 and 11, and covered 147.9 km at velocities of 7.38 m/sec (SD 0.44), 8.88 m/sec (SD 0.33) and 8.43 m/sec (SD 0.59) and galloped 2.1 km. Overall, slight or intermittent lameness in trained horses was noted on 76/655 (12%) of horse observation days. Swelling was evident on 284/655 (41%) of horse observation days in the metacarpophalangeal (MCPJ) and metatarsophalangeal (MTPJ) joints (92%), palmar metacarpal tendon region (7%) or carpus (1%). Swelling of the MCPJ or MTPJ was not associated with obvious lameness. Radiographic changes were minor and no gross lesions in bone or tendon tissue were evident except for one case of dorsal metacarpal disease. Post mortem, the cartilage of some MCPJ and MTPJ had obvious wear lines and high lesion scores, which were not consistently related to clinical evidence of pain, lameness or joint swelling. Mean lesion scores were not significantly different between the MCPJ and MTPJ, or between trained and untrained horses. CONCLUSIONS Workload can be readily quantified in racehorses under semi-commercial training conditions. Obvious lesions in cartilage of the MCPJ or MTPJ were present in some trained and some untrained horses and not consistently associated with clinical evidence of lameness, joint swelling or change in other connective tissues. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Workload data in racing horses are likely to be highly relevant for studying the pathogenesis of changes in bone, tendon and cartilage during training, for training management and for risk analysis in racehorse populations. Although obvious cartilage lesions produced little clinical effect, such lesions have previously been shown to be progressive and to prejudice athletic capability. Detection of such occult lesions in young horses will require more sophisticated detection methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- E C Firth
- Institute of Veterinary Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
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UEKI H, AKAGAMI M, OYAMADA T, YOSHIKAWA H, KATAYAMA Y, OIKAWA MA, YOSHIKAWA T. Effect of Exercise on Thyroid, Parathyroid and Bone in Very Young Thoroughbreds. J Equine Sci 2003. [DOI: 10.1294/jes.14.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki UEKI
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Kitasato University
| | - Masataka AKAGAMI
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Kitasato University
| | - Toshifumi OYAMADA
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Kitasato University
| | - Hiroyasu YOSHIKAWA
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Kitasato University
| | | | | | - Takashi YOSHIKAWA
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Kitasato University
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Smith RKW, Birch HL, Goodman S, Heinegård D, Goodship AE. The influence of ageing and exercise on tendon growth and degeneration--hypotheses for the initiation and prevention of strain-induced tendinopathies. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2002; 133:1039-50. [PMID: 12485691 DOI: 10.1016/s1095-6433(02)00148-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Strain-induced tendinopathy is a common injury in both human and equine athletes, with increasing incidence associated with greater involvement in sport and an increasingly aged population. This paper reviews our studies on the abundant non-collagenous protein, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), in equine tendons. Its variation between tendon type and site, age and exercise has provided an insight into how age and exercise influence tendon growth and maturation. Tendons can be broadly divided into two types, reflecting their different matrix composition and function: the energy-storing tendons used for weight-bearing and locomotion, which suffer a high incidence of strain-induced tendinopathy, and positional tendons involved in limb placement or manipulative skills. It would appear that while energy-storing tendon can respond to the mechanical forces applied to it during growth, there is no evidence that it can do so after skeletal maturity. Instead, cumulative fatigue damage causes degeneration at the molecular level, potentially weakening it and increasing the risk of clinical injury. Appropriate exercise regimes early in life may help to improve the quality of growing tendon, thereby reducing the incidence of injury during ageing or subsequent athletic career.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K W Smith
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts. AL9 7TA, UK.
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