Subscribe to RSS
Download PDF
DOI: 10.3415/VCOT-13-04-0046
Measurements of normal joint angles by goniometry in calves
We thank Assoc. Prof. Dr. Safa Gürcan (Ankara University Veterinary Faculty) for their kindly assistance with the statistical analysis.
Publication History
Received:
12 April 2013
Accepted:
15 January 2013
Publication Date:
20 December 2017 (online)
Summary
Objective
The aim of this study was to establish normal reference values of the forelimb and hindlimb joint angles in normal Holstein calves.
Methods
Thirty clinically normal Holstein calves that were free of any detectable musculoskeletal abnormalities were included in the study. A standard transparent plastic goniometer was used to measure maximum flexion, maximum extension, and range-of-motion of the shoulder, elbow, carpal, hip, stifle, and tarsal joints. The goniometric measurements were done on awake calves that were positioned in lateral recumbency. The goniometric values were measured and recorded by two independent investigators.
Results
As a result of the study it was concluded that goniometric values obtained from awake calves in lateral recumbency were found to be highly consistent and accurate between investigators (p <0.05).
Clinical significance
The data of this study acquired objective and useful information on the normal forelimb and hindlimb joint angles in normal Holstein calves. Further studies can be done to predict detailed goniometric values from different diseases and compare them.
-
References
- 1 Jaeger GH, Marcellin-Little DJ, DePuy V. et al. Validity of goniometric measurements in cats. Am J Vet Res 2007; 68: 822-826.
- 2 Govoni VM, Rahal SC, Agostinho FS. et al. Goniometric measurements of the forelimb and hindlimb joints in sheep. Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2012; 25: 297-300.
- 3 Red J. What is a clinical goniometer? [Internet Page]. eHow. Available at: http://www.ehow.com/facts_7618819_clinical-goniometer.html
- 4 Norkin CC, White DJ. Measurement of Joint Motion: A Guide to Goniometry. Philadelphia: FA Davis Company; 2003. pg. 404.
- 5 Jaeger GH, Marcellin-Little DJ, Levine D. Reliability of goniometry in Labrador Retrievers. Am J Vet Res 2002; 63: 979-986.
- 6 Thomas TM, Marcellin-Little DJ, Roe SC. et al. Comparison of measurements obtained by use of an electrogoniometer and a universal plastic goniometer for the assessment of joint motion in dogs. Am J Vet Res 2006; 67: 1974-1979.
- 7 Jaeger GH, Wosar MA. Use of hinged transarticular external fixation for adjunctive joint stabilization in dogs and cats: 14 cases (1999-2003). JAVMA 2005; 227: 586-591.
- 8 Tomlinson J, Fox D, Cook JL. et al. Measurement of femoral angles in four dog breeds. Vet Surg 2007; 36: 593-598.
- 9 Dismukes DI, Tomlinson JL, Fox DB. et al. Radiographic measurement of the proximal and distal mechanical joint angles in the canine tibia. Vet Surg 2007; 36: 699-704.
- 10 Hette K, Rahal SC, Volpi RS. et al. Radiographic measurement of tibial joint angles in sheep. Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2009; 22: 204-209.
- 11 Muller DL, Ellinger DK. Colostral immunoglobulin concentrations among breeds of dairy cattle. J Dairy Sci 1981; 64: 1727-1730.
- 12 Andrews A. Other calf problems. In: Andrews A, Blowey R, Boyd H. et al. editors. Bovine Medicine Disease and Husbandry of Cattle. Blackwell Publishing: 2004. pg. 2004-249.
- 13 Liljebrink Y, Bergh A. Goniometry: Is it a reliable tool to monitor passive joint range of motion in horses?. Equine Vet J Suppl 2010; 38: 676-682.