EVMM Posture

Question 1

What are the consequences of poor posture (3)

Answer 1

1. 1. Muscle tension and strain leading to lameness
2. Changes weight bearing can cause over-use injury
3. Awkward positions lead to injury if horse makes a sudden move

Question 2

What are the benefits of good posture (3)

Answer 2

1. Uses least amount of energy
2. Balance ready for next movement
   3.

Question 3

Describe good posture (stance) and two common examples of poor posture (stance)

Answer 3

Stand square, head and trunk upright, center of mass is balanced

1. Standing under
2. Old broodmare stance

Question 4

Mechanical locking of the legs is one strategy to maintain static equilibrium, what is the other and which is more energy efficient.

Answer 4

Tensing of muscles to stiffen joints, locking is more energy sufficient

Question 5

Define shunt stability.

Answer 5

Ability of muscles to contract before movement – ex. Core muscles contract before taking a step

Question 6

What is the main goal of the proprioceptive system?

Answer 6

Keep horse upright and prevent injury

Question 7

What are two ways to tell if the horse leans left or right?

Answer 7

1. Well developed or tight extensors on the ipsilateral side
2. Larger hoof/foot ipsilateral
3. Visible lean

Question 8

When does proprioceptive input affect neurologic output?

Answer 8

A loss or decrease of sensory inpute leads to unstable balance and inaccurate movement

Question 9

How can dental hooks make it difficult for the horse to collect?

Answer 9

1. Prematurity of strike
2. Pain
3. Restriction of mandibular movement
4. Alteration of proprioceptive input

Question 10

Why does closing your eyes make it difficult to balance?

Answer 10

Brain aims to keep eyes level with the horizon

Question 11

What affect do long toes and low heels have on posture?

Answer 11

Makes breakover too far forward

Question 12

Can hoof balance affect our manipulations? How?

Answer 12

Poorly balanced hoof changes the proprioceptive information to the brain and cerebellum

Question 13

What are six systems or structures that are involved in balance?

Answer 13

1. TMJ
2. Hyoid
3. Cervical
4. Vestibular
5. Vision
6. Foot balance