Metacarpal geometry changes during Thoroughbred race training are compatible with sagittal-plane cantilever bending

Abstract

Reasons for performing study: Bending of the equine metacarpal bones during locomotion is poorly understood. Cantilever bending, in particular, may influence the loading of the metacarpal bones and surrounding structures in unique ways.Hypothesis: We hypothesised that increased amounts of sagittal-plane cantilever bending may govern changes to the shape of the metacarpal bones of Thoroughbred racehorses during training. We hypothesised that this type of bending would require a linear change to occur in the combined second moment of area of the bones for sagittal-plane bending (I) during race training. Methods: Six Thoroughbred racehorses were used, who had all completed at least 4 years of r..