Magnetic resonance imaging of the proximal metacarpal region in endurance horses: investigation of the effect of training

Abstract

Background: Proximal palmar metacarpal pain, associated with proximal suspensory desmitis and/or stress pathology of the proximal palmar cortex of the third metacarpal bone (McIII), is one of the most common causes of lameness in endurance horses. However, the effect of exercise on these structures remains poorly elucidated. Objectives: The main aim of this study was to objectively describe training-related adaptive changes in the proximal palmar cortex of McIII and in the proximal aspect of the suspensory ligament (SL) of novice and experienced endurance horses, before and after six months of training