Application of a Hall-effect transducer for measurement of tendon strains in horses

摘要: Custom-designed Hall-effect strain sensors (HES) were implanted surgically onto the superficial digital flexor tendons of forelimbs 4 adult Thoroughbreds. Strains recorded at various gaits, using a portable amplifer and FM cassette recorder. Strain calculations used original length (L) as HES position with forelimb in relaxed neutral during anesthesia. A characteristic deflection cycle recording was confirmed to correspond initial hoof contact ground (heel strike) by simultaneous weight bearing via footswitch. Heel strike reference point determine magnitude change nonweight under conditions. The weight-bearing strains maximal strain) 2 horses (with rider) 3.1% 7.6% walk, 6.5% 10.1% trot, 11.5% 16.6% gallop. rate tendon loading gallop approximately 200%/s. (minimal heel smaller than bearing, but also increased faster gaits. In 3 led walk modest increases angle (baseline 52 degrees) resulted small not affected. Results study indicated that can be successfully adapted provide continuous measurement without subjective signs discomfort or lameness after instrumentation.