Equine Biomechanics

Equine biomechanics is a growing field in academia across the country. Due to the lack of undergraduate and graduate training in the field of biomechanics, this program continues to remain exclusive to a few major universities with facilities and experts to be pioneers in the field. Over the past two years, this area of study has been incorporated into the equine program at UGA by incorporating gait analysis software into classes. The recent development of a Georgia-based company, EquineTec, has allowed for more widespread applications of the field of biomechanics at UGA. EquineTec has consulted with both the Animal and Dairy Science Department and the College of Veterinary Medicine to develop a software package capable of meeting teaching, research, and Cooperative Extension needs. Use of gait analysis software has allowed for the incorporation of an entirely new upper level undergraduate and graduate course in the ADS department. ADSC 4230(L), Equine Anatomy and Biomechanics, is currently going through the approval process to be incorporated in the curriculum next fall. Students will learn principles of equine anatomy and biomechanics based on current scientific research that will apply to future veterinary or industry careers. Three research projects were conducted in 2011 examining various topics in equine health as related to biomechanics.