The function of the equine carpal joint: a review

Authors: Deane NJ, Davies AS
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 43, Issue 2, pp 45-47, Apr 1995
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Horse, Livestock
Subject Terms: Limb - lower, Joint/arthrology, Locomotor, Skeletal/bone/cartilage
Article class: Review Article

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Abstract: The most consistent published ideas on the function of the carpal joint of the horse concern the elasticity of the joint, and its limits to extension. Most of these are not well substantiated experimentally. Compression stress appears to be absorbed by the intercarpal ligaments as the carpal bones are separated by a wedge action during loading. Overextension is prevented by occlusion of dorsally located stop facets on the rows of carpal bones, and by the support of a stay apparatus.

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