A preliminary study to investigate the prevalence and progression of pelvic axial rotations among neonate foals

3^rd International Veterinary Congress

August 18-20, 2016 London, UK

Rebecca Stroud, Ellis J and Cunliffe C

McTimoney College of Chiropractic, UK

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Vet Sci Technol

Abstract :

This study aims to identify the presence or absence of pelvic axial asymmetry in the neonate foal and its progression during the first nine weeks of life using quantitative data. Measurement of the tuber coxae heights in relation to level ground were taken of ten healthy subjects at three time periods: 0-1 week; 4-5 weeks and 8-9 weeks of age. A novel method of measurement was used in the form of two laser measures applied simultaneously. Between the first and second data collection foals received their first turnout. A questionnaire provided qualitative data in order to analyze potentially influential variables. Symmetry indices (SI) of datasets were calculated and analyzed by statistical analysis. There was a significant presence of axial rotation of the pelvis within 0-1 week of age (mean SI=0.337�±0.25; p=0.002). These asymmetries did not change significantly between week 0-1 and week 8-9. There was no significant difference of asymmetry between week 0-1 and week 4-5 suggesting turnout did not have an effect on the prevalence of pelvic misalignments in foals. Foals of mares that gave birth standing up displayed significantly greater asymmetry of the pelvis during week 0-1 when compared to foals of mares that gave birth in a recumbent position (mean SI�±SD: Recumbent n=8; 0.2497�±0.659; standing n=2; 0.686�±0.4798; p=0.04). This study shows evidence of significant pelvic axial asymmetry from birth to 8-9 weeks of age in foals.

Biography :

Rebecca Stroud has completed her MSc in Animal Manipulation from the McTimoney College of Chiropratic in 2015. She currently works in private practice as a McTimoney Animal Manipulator and Massage Therapist in Herefordshire, UK. In addition to obtaining her BSc in Equine Science, she has spent over 13 years working in the equine industry. Holding a variety of roles in different equestrian disciplines including work with Grand Prix dressage horses and International Eventers has allowed her to gain valuable experience and knowledge. She is also a regular contributor to the national magazine Horse on the subjects of training, health and welfare.

Email: info@rebeccastroud.co.uk