FAQ: Can the Q be used on a gaited horse?

By Kevin G. Keegan, DVM, MS, DACVS | Updated on March 07, 2019 | Data Collection, Data Interpretation, FAQ, Gaited Horses, KG Keegan

In general, the ambling (single foot, or 4-beat) gaits decrease the vertical movement of the horse's trunk, making it easier to “sit”. Consequently, to maintain some vertical momentum, the horse’s vertical head movement becomes exaggerated.  Because of the way The Q (Lameness Locator®) displays results relative to “expected” vertical movement, this may cause underestimated forelimb lameness, overestimated hind limb lameness, and increased variability.  Also, for the ipsilateral gaits, the evaluator must flip the hind limb results (i.e. reported RH lameness is really LH lameness), because the inference of footfall from the right forelimb gyroscope is off by ½ of a stride cycle, (i.e. the left hind foot is on the ground when it is assumed that the right hind limb foot is on the ground).     For The...

continue reading →

---