Are there laterality differences in passive flexion and extension of the proximal limb joints in working Siberian Husky dogs?

Soper, S.; Charlton, S.; Hunnisett, A.

Are there laterality differences in passive flexion and extension of the proximal limb joints in working Siberian Husky dogs?

2024

Soper, S. | Charlton, S. | Hunnisett, A.

Differences between left and right-side joint range of motion may affect canine locomotive ability and movement. Passive range of motion (PROM) joint measurement provides the limits that a particular joint can move in its physiological planes of motion without influence of muscle activity. To compare left and right-side flexion and extension of the glenohumeral, humeroulnar/humeroradial, coxofemoral and femorotibial joints and for laterality PROM differences. Siberian Husky dogs were selected (n = 18), mixed gender, aged (1.4–11.8) years living and working together. Goniometry measured joint PROM, a validated, non-invasive method. Dogs were conscious and placed in standing position. Triplicate measures of joint flexion and extension were taken bilaterally of each dog for afore-mentioned joints. Median values of triplicate measures were computed. Paired t-tests compared laterality of joint PROM, gender, age (< 6 vs. ≥ 6 years) effects. Inferential symmetry indices [SI] were calculated. For all joints, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between left and right-side flexion and extension measures nor between genders. Age (< 6 vs. ≥ 6 years) had a significant effect on right hip flexion (p < 0.001); both left and right-side shoulder flexion (p < 0.001); elbow flexion (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001); hip extension (p = 0.02 and p < 0.001) respectively. The shoulder joint showed greatest PROM asymmetry (SI = 3.63%). Bilateral PROM measures are important to consider in joint movement and assessment. These results warrant further investigation with larger cohorts of defined age groups.

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