Three-Dimensional Kinematic Motion Analysis of Shivers in Horses: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Our aim was to assess three-dimensional kinematic motion analysis as an objective diagnostic tool for the characterization of the movement disorder of Shivers in horses. Kinematic parameters were measured in three horses with Shivers and were compared with a control group of four normal horses. Multiple parameter differences were found in the horses with Shivers at the walk, during backing, and when asked to pick up their hindlimbs. Most significant changes were a wider hindlimb stance of 0.39 ± 0.15 m and increased abduction angle of 48.7 ± 7.52° and hoof elevation (0.77 ± 0.08 m left and 0.94 ± 0.11 m right) when the horses were asked to pick up their hindlimbs. Control horses could back easily in a straight line and with symmetrical hoof separation and could maintain their center of weight when picking up their hindlimbs. In contrast, the horses with Shivers had difficulty backing straight, were slower, with a shorter stride and asymmetric hoof separation. They could not maintain their center of balance when picking up their hindlimbs. The findings of this pilot study advance the understanding of the movement disorder of Shivers and could be used as outcome measures to evaluate treatment modalities.