VET notes
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
• Why a horse's front legs are so vulnerable to concussion
• How to reduce the risk of overloading strains within soft tissues
• What to consider when starting a horse in work
A HORSE'S ANATOMY differs significantly from a human's due to the evolutionary adaptation for different modes of locomotion and environmental demands. Evaluating our structural and functional differences (and similarities) can highlight vulnerable areas and help people to manage their equines to reduce risk and keep them injury free.
If we look at horses in their natural habitat in the wild they cover vast distances and are designed to protect themselves through the flight instinct. They are built for speed and endurance, with a powerful push-off and stride extension. Humans are designed for stability and flexibility and are more able to adapt to a wider range of terrains.
Horses are quadrupeds and move on four limbs, while humans are bipeds who move on two limbs only. Four legs enable a stable base with four points of contact with the ground. This facilitates carrying heavy loads or moving on uneven terrain.
Quadrupeds can move in various coordinated gaits:
■ Walk
■ Trot
■ Canter
■ Gallop
They use different combinations of their four limbs to create specific movement patterns. This versatility in movement allows them to adapt to different situations and environments. The weight of the animal
