Dr. Maria Soroko – owner and director of the company “Equine Massage – Maria Soroko”, which offers equine rehabilitation and thermography services, professional courses and workshops associated with horse rehabilitation and the application of thermography in veterinary and sports medicine.
Maria gained her PhD in Agricultural Science with a specialisation in Animal Husbandry from the University of Environmental and Life Sciences of Wroclaw, Department of Horse Breeding and Equestrian Studies in 2013. The phd dissertation considered the effect of long-term training on racehorse body surface temperature. Her Masters degree in Equine Science was completed in 2010 at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Wales, United Kingdom.
Since 2008 the author has practiced thermography extensively in equine physiotherapy and in veterinary medicine, cooperating with veterinarians, horse breeders and trainers.
Maria is also Founder and chairperson of the Association of Animal Thermography, Wroclaw, Poland, which promotes the animal application of infrared thermography and its use both in clinical and experimental medicine.
Maria has many years of experience in equine physiotherapy, achieving qualifications as an Equine Body Worker in sport massage and remedial therapy. Maria is also a riding instructor at the British Horse Society. Her skills and experience were achieved both in Europe and Australia.
She conducts research on the application of thermography in sport and racing horses, authoring over 30 original publications and overview papers, also authoring a book monograph: Soroko M. Equine thermography in practice, published by Association of Sustainable Development, Wroclaw, Poland, 2014

In 2014 the company established a research team, founded by: owner and director of the Equine Massage company Dr Maria Soroko, Dr Kevin Howell – Clinical Scientist in Microvascular Diagnostics and an Honorary Research Associate at the UCL Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK and Dr Krzysztof Dudek – researcher from the Institute of Machines Design and Operation, Technical University of Wroclaw, Poland.
The group has extensive experience of infrared thermography in the detection of:
•    equine musculoskeletal injury,
•    subclinical inflammation of racehorses,
•    influence of training on the musculoskeletal system
•    rehabilitation effects
The group has also expertise in the development of new thermographic techniques and quality assurance of thermal imaging for biomedical applications.
Our team can offer research expertise in:
•    application of thermography in veterinary medicine, training and rehabilitation;
•    procurement of thermographic equipment and advice on quality assurance;
•    study design and statistical analysis of data.
Our achievements:
Cooperation with Microvascular Diagnostics, UCL Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, London, UK
2014 July: Presentation of research paper “Thermographic evaluation of racehorse performance” at the 1st Seminar of Medical Infrared Thermography at the Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom.

Books and monographs
Soroko M.: 2014. Termografia Koni w Praktyce. Wroclaw, Association of Sustainable Development. In Polish, 105 pp., ISBN 978 83 939460 0 6.
Soroko M., Davies Morel M.C.G.: 2016. Equine Thermography in Practice, CABI, United Kingdom. ISBN 13: 978 1 78064 787 6.
Soroko M., Davies – Morel M.C.G., Howell K.: 2016. The application of infrared thermography in equestrian sport. In: Application of Infrared Thermography in Sports Science, Quesada J. I. P., editor. Springer Verlag, pp. 265-296.
Soroko M.: 2017. Thermographic evaluation of racehorse performance. In: Innovative Research in Thermal Imaging for Biology and Medicine, Vardasca R., Mendes J.G. editors. IGI Global, pp. 264-286.

Publications

Refereed papers

JSoroko M., Cwynar P., Howell K., Yarnell K., Dudek K., Zaborski D.: 2018. Assessment of saddle fit in racehorses using infrared Thermography (IRT). Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 63:30-34.
Soroko M., Howell K., Dudek K., Wilk I., Zastrzeżyńska M., Janczarek I. 2018. A pilot study into the utility of dynamic infrared thermography for measuring body surface temperature changes during treadmill exercise in horses. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 62:44-46.
Kupczyński R., Śpitalniak K., Zwyrzykowska-Wodzińska A., Soroko M.: 2018 The influence of different workload trainings on some blood parameters in show jumping horses. Veterinarski Arhiv 88 (3), 279-293.
Cwynar P., Soroko M., Kupczyński R., Burek A., Pogoda – Sewerniak K.: 2018. Pain and stress reactions in neurohormonal, thermographic and behavioural studies in calves. Conference on Computational Vision and Medical Image Processing, Porto, Portugal, 18-20 October 2017. Lecture Notes in Computational Vision and Biomechanics, Tavares J.M, Jorge J.N., editors. Springer International Publishing AG: Cham, Switzerland, 27:722-731.
Soroko M., Howell K., Dudek K., Wilk I., Janczarek I.: 2018. Physiological changes of the horse musculoskeletal system during physiological effort measured by infrared thermography. Conference on Computational Vision and Medical Image Processing, Porto, Portugal, 18-20 October 2017. Lecture Notes in Computational Vision and Biomechanics, Tavares J.M, Jorge J.N., editors. Springer International Publishing AG: Cham, Switzerland, 27:1011-1014.
Soroko M., Howell K., Dudek K.: 2017. The effect of ambient temperature on infrared thermographic images of joints in the distal forelimbs of healthy racehorses. Journal of Thermal Biology, 66:63-67.
Soroko M., Howell K., Dudek K., Henklewski R., Zielińska P.: 2017. The influence of breed, age, gender, training level and ambient temperature on forelimb and back temperature in racehorses. Animal Science Journal, 88(2):347-355.
Soroko M., Zaborski D., Grzesiak W., Parafiniuk M., Modrzejewski A.: 2017. Changes in udder skin surface temperature of dairy cows caused by machine milking. Folia Pomeranae Universitatis Technologiae Stetinensis, 332(42):163-173.
Soroko M., Howell K., Zwyrzykowska A., Dudek K., Zielińska P., Kupczyński R.: 2016. Maximum eye temperature in the assessment of training in racehorses: correlations with salivary cortisol concentration, rectal temperature and heart rate. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 45:39-45.
Soroko M., Jodkowska E., Dudek K.: 2015. Diagnoza termograficzna w monitorowaniu rocznego treningu koni wyścigowych. Medycyna Weterynaryjna, 71(01):52-58.
Jodkowska E., Dudek K., Soroko M.: 2015. Temperature range analysis Tmax on dorsal surface of sporting horses. Turkish Journal of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, 39(2):229-232.
Soroko M., Dudek K., Howell K., Jodkowska E., Henklewski R.: 2014. Thermographic evaluation of racehorse performance. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 34(9):1076-1083.
Soroko M., Henklewski R., Filipowski H., Jodkowska E.: 2013. The effectiveness of thermographic analysis in equine orthopedics. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 33(9):760-762.

Other papers

Soroko M., Howell. K.: 2018. Infrared thermography: Current applications in equine medicine. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 60:90–96.
Zielinska P., Soroko M., Zwyrzykowska A., Kiełbowicz Z.: 2017. The use of laser biostimulation in human and animal physiotherapy – a review. Acta Veterinaria Brno, 86:91–96.
Soroko M., Henklewski R.: 2013. The effectiveness of thermographic analysis in diagnosis orthopedic diseases in racehorses. Veterinary Magazine, 196(22):879-883.
Soroko M.: 2013. Benefits of equine massage therapy. Zycie Weterynaryjne, 88(1):44-46.
Jodkowska E., Soroko M.: 2012. The effectiveness of thermography in equine veterinary medicine. Zycie Weterynaryjne, 87(2):749-752.
Soroko M., Jodkowska E.: 2011. Usefulness of thermography applied in equine veterinary medicine and in the equine industry. Veterinary Medicine, 67:397 – 401 (0,203 IF).
Soroko M.: 2011. Compendium of thermography applied in the equine diagnosis, rehabilitation and management. Animal Production Review, 7:23-25.
Soroko M.: 2011. Why is the passive stay apparatus limited to the horse? Animal Production Review, 4:29-30.
Soroko M.: 2009. Equine thermography diagnosis. Lower Silesian Chamber of Veterinary Medicine Bulletin, 19,2(74):109-111.

In 2014 the company established a research team, founded by: owner and director of the Equine Massage company Dr Maria Soroko, Dr Kevin Howell – Clinical Scientist in Microvascular Diagnostics and an Honorary Research Associate at the UCL Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK and Dr Krzysztof Dudek – researcher from the Institute of Machines Design and Operation, Technical University of Wroclaw, Poland.
The group has extensive experience of infrared thermography in the detection of:
•    equine musculoskeletal injury,
•    subclinical inflammation of racehorses,
•    influence of training on the musculoskeletal system
•    rehabilitation effects
The group has also expertise in the development of new thermographic techniques and quality assurance of thermal imaging for biomedical applications.
Our team can offer research expertise in:
•    application of thermography in veterinary medicine, training and rehabilitation;
•    procurement of thermographic equipment and advice on quality assurance;
•    study design and statistical analysis of data.
Our achievements:
Cooperation with Microvascular Diagnostics, UCL Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, London, UK
2014 July: Presentation of research paper “Thermographic evaluation of racehorse performance” at the 1st Seminar of Medical Infrared Thermography at the Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom.

Our company offers two types of treatment:
Equine Myofascial Release (MFR) – treatment in which the main function is to release fascial tissue to allow the horse’s body to work at its highest potential, with prolonged muscle relaxation freeing them from unnecessary tension and soreness.
Myofascial release applies sustained pressure to the fascial system and has effects on the elastin and collagen. Treatment can also help improve circulation and reduce inflammation in joints and muscles. It can help your horse be more relaxed by relieving tension and reducing the risk of overusing other muscles that compensate for any discomfort.
The treatment incudes manual assessment of the horse body to provide specific indicators to soft tissue injuries and also to detect saddle fit problems, training overloads etc.
Treatment gives you noticeable results after the first treatment.

Sports massage therapy – increases the ability of the horse in training and improves the function of the body. This massage regenerates muscles, increases flexibility of joints and ligaments, and accelerates metabolism. It also reduces stiffness and can help to speed up the natural repair of damaged tissue resulting from physical exercise.

Important benefits of a regular massage treatment:

When does your horse need massage therapy?

• If your horse has any of the following symptoms:
• Dislikes being groomed;
• Cold backed when tacked up;
• Head tossing;
• High headed;
• Head tilting;
• Lack of poll flexion and bend;
• Lack of forward impulsion;
• Difficulty with lateral movements;
• Refusal to pick-up correct lead;
• Has an uneven stride length;
• Unexplained lameness;
• Prefers one rein;
• Bucking;
• Holding the tail to one side;
• Excessive rolling.

All of these could be signs of pain or discomfort and should be investigated.

If you are interested in massage treatment for your horse please contact me, I will be happy to help.
Dr Maria Soroko
Mail: kontakt@eqma.pl
0048 507595109

Thermography is as a non – invasive diagnostic imaging method detecting body surface temperature distribution. Thermography has found a broad range of applications in equine sport and veterinary medicine for :

• enhancing clinical assessment of the horse;
• identification of pathological conditions associated mainly with inflammation processes of the distal parts of the limbs and back;
• detection of subclinical signs of inflammation before the onset of clinical signs of pathology, providing great value in veterinary medicine;
• following-up to detect improvement and progression of healing processes;
• assessing musculoskeletal stress caused by training;
• monitoring changes of horse surface temperature during training (dynamic thermography);
• determining welfare compliance in sport horses;
• checking the saddle fit.

Procedures of preparation of the horse for thermographic examination:
Both internal and external factors have a significant effect on body surface temperature. Therefore thermographic measurement should be performed in a controlled environment and with a prepared horse.

• The thermographic examination should be performed indoors, in areas sheltered from the sunlight, in the absence of air drafts (Palmer 1981; Turner 2001).
• The temperature of the examination area should be cooler than body surface temperature, with the recommended ambient temperature maintained between 21°C to 26°C.
• The recommended acclimatisation time for the horse prior to imaging is 20 minutes (Purohit 2009). However a longer period of equilibration will be required if a horse is transported from an extreme cold or hot environment.
• High humidity should be avoided.
• The horse must have a clean, dry hair coat and skin and should be groomed at least one hour before the examination. Dry dirt can be brushed away approximately 10 minutes before scanning.
• The feet should be clean, picked out and brushed to remove external contamination.
• Hair coat should be short, of uniform length, and lay flat against the skin to permit thermal conduction (Turner et al. 1983).
• Blankets should be removed at least 30 minutes before thermographic examination, and any bandages should be removed at least two hours before imaging (Palmer 1981).
• Imaging should be performed prior to exercise.
• The horse should not receive any physical therapy within 24 hours prior to the thermographic examination, and should not have acupuncture in the region of the examination during the previous week.
• Any systemic or topical medications should not be applied prior to imaging, and any residues should be washed off the previous day (Turner 1991).
• Anti – inflammatory medications, vasoactive drugs, regional and local blocks, sedation and tranquilisation should be avoided because of their effect on superficial perfusion (Purohit 2009).

Artifacts can be produced by any material on the body surface such as dirt, thick coat, scars and bands (Stromberg 1974; Palmer 1981).

We offer

• Full body imaging for general assessment of the horse, veterinary diagnosis, pre-purchase examination with written report identifying ‘areas of interest’. Images will include:
• Lateral aspect of the whole body from both sides;
• All four distal parts of limbs from dorsal, palmar/plantar, lateral and medial aspects;
• Feet;
• The lateral upper part of the thoracic and pelvic areas, and also the lateral aspect of the neck, head and trunk from both sides;
• Back (thoracic and lumbar vertebrae) from dorsal aspect;
• Pelvis area (sacral vertebrae) from dorsal aspect.
  The same examination can be repeated after work.
• Checking the saddle fit.
  Images taken will include pre and post views of the back and an image of the saddle pommels post work with written report
• ‘Area of Interest’
  Images taken will include parts of the body, for example to assess injury healing or rehabilitation effects.

A proper saddle fit is essential for the comfort of your horse.
Improper saddle-fit is a significant cause of physical and behavioral equine performance problems associated with:

• Swelling, heat and pain in the muscles under the saddle;
• Atrophy of the muscles on either side of the withers;
• Scar tissue around the shoulder blades;
• White hairs under the saddle;
• Acute and chronic muscular tension in the neck and back ;
• Joint problems in the hocks and stifles;
• Hindlimb lameness;
• Concussive problems in the front feet;
• Forelimbs lameness — tripping and stumbling.

Traditional veterinary medicine often fails to identify saddle fit a problem, instead focusing on addressing the pain and specific anatomic lesions secondary to an ill – fitting saddle. Muscular back pain and over – riding spinous processes, hock or stifle arthritis, and tendon and ligament desmitis or tears are frequent secondary problems to ill – fitting saddles due to direct trauma of the back.
Improper saddle fit can be associated with

• Individual body build of the horse;
• Change of the back line shape (muscle development, muscle loss);
• Asymmetric body build of the horse (especially of the shoulder or back area) which can be associated with past injuries of the horse;
• Uneven work of the hindlimbs;
• Uneven rider’s sit .

Our company offers:
Consultations in saddle fit with additional thermographic examination of saddle fit.
For more information contact: Dr Maria Soroko, Mail: kontakt@eqma.pl, 0048 507495109

Classes are conducted in a group of 10 participants.

The course is presented by:

Dr. Maria Soroko – owner and director of the company “Equine Massage – Maria Soroko”, which offers equine rehabilitation and thermography services. Maria gained her PhD in Agricultural Science with a specialisation in Animal Husbandry from the University of Environmental and Life Sciences of Wroclaw, Department of Horse Breeding and Equestrian Studies. Her Masters degree in Equine Science was completed in 2010 at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Wales, United Kingdom. Maria has many years of experience in equine physiotherapy, achieving qualifications as an Equine Body Worker in sport massage and remedial therapy. Maria is also a riding instructor at the British Horse Society. Her skills and experience were achieved both in Europe and Australia. Since 2008 she has practiced thermography extensively in equine physiotherapy and in veterinary medicine, cooperating with veterinarians, horse breeders and trainers.

The course is presented by:
Dr. Maria Soroko – owner and director of the company “Equine Massage – Maria Soroko”, which offers equine rehabilitation and thermography services. Maria gained her PhD in Agricultural Science with a specialisation in Animal Husbandry from the University of Environmental and Life Sciences of Wroclaw, Department of Horse Breeding and Equestrian Studies. Her Masters degree in Equine Science was completed in 2010 at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Wales, United Kingdom. Maria has many years of experience in equine physiotherapy, achieving qualifications as an Equine Body Worker in sport massage and remedial therapy. Maria is also a riding instructor at the British Horse Society. Her skills and experience were achieved both in Europe and Australia. Since 2008 she  has practiced thermography extensively in equine physiotherapy and in veterinary medicine, cooperating with veterinarians, horse breeders and trainers. Maria is also Founder and chairperson of the Association of Animal Thermography, Wroclaw.

Table of Contents

CHAPTER I – Principles of equine thermography
1.1. Thermography
1.2. Methods for measuring infrared radiation
1.3. Principles of infrared radiation
1.4. The thermographic image
1.5. Thermographic imaging technology
1.6. Thermography as a diagnostic tool in equine medicine
1.7. Normal body surface temperature distribution of the horse
1.7.1. Anatomical structure
1.7.2. Subcutaneous tissue
1.7.3. Muscle tissue
1.7.4. Hair coat
1.7.5. Season of the year
CHAPTER 2 – Fundamentals of thermographic examination
2.1. Procedures for thermographic examination, including the impact of environmental conditions
2.1.1. Preparing a room for thermographic examination
2.1.2. Preparing a horse for thermographic examination
2.1.3. Interview with the horse owner
2.2. Taking images of horses
2.2.1. Thermographic protocol
2.2.2. Correct positioning of horse and camera
2.2.3. Sample thermographic images
2.2.3.1. Lateral aspect of the horse
2.2.3.2. Distal forelimbs
2.2.3.3. Distal hindlimbs
2.2.3.4. Shoulder area
2.2.3.5. Croup area
2.2.3.6. Chest area
2.2.3.7. Neck area
2.2.3.8. Head area
2.2.3.9. Back area
2.3. The most frequently made errors in thermographic imaging
CHAPTER 3 Interpretation of thermographic images and the normal superficial temperature distribution of the horse
3.1. Thermography analysis for veterinary or prophylactic purposes
3.2. Analysis of symmetry and repeatability of body surface temperature distribution in contralateral body areas of the horse
3.2.1. Determination of the body surface temperature difference between symmetrical body areas or Regions of Interest (ROIs)
3.2.2. Determination of body surface temperature along linear ROIs or at specific points on the body surface
3.2.3. Interpretation of thermograms
3.2.3.1. The distal forelimbs and hindlimbs
3.2.3.2. The back area
3.2.3.3. The shoulder area
3.2.3.4. The neck area
3.2.3.5. The head area
3.2.3.6. The croup area
3.2.3.7. The chest area
3.2.4. What should be considered in thermographic image interpretation?
3.2.5. Thermographic reports
CHAPTER 4 Development of equine thermography and its use in equestrianism
4.1. The development of thermography in equine veterinary medicine
4.2. The use of thermography in equestrianism
4.2.1. The use of thermography to monitor horse welfare
4.2.2. The use of thermography to assess saddle fit
4.2.3. The use of thermography to assess hoof function
4.2.4. The use of thermography to assess racing performance
CHAPTER 5 The use of thermography in physiotherapy
5.1. Thermography applications in equine physiotherapy
5.1.1. Case 1 – muscle tension of the back
5.1.2. Case 2 – muscle tension of the croup
5.1.3. Case 3 – flexor tendon overload
5.2. Manual assessment of the horse
5.2.1. The head area
5.2.1.1. Skeletal system
5.2.1.2. Muscular system
5.2.1.3. Indicators of a problem
5.2.1.4. Manual and visual assessment of the head
5.2.2. The neck area
5.2.2.1. Skeletal system
5.2.2.2. Muscular system
5.2.2.3. Indicators of a problem
5.2.2.4. Manual and visual assessment of the neck area
5.2.3. The forelimb area
5.2.3.1. Skeletal system
5.2.3.2. Muscular system
5.2.3.3. Indicators of a problem
5.2.3.4. Manual and visual assessment of the forelimb
5.2.4. The back area
5.2.4.1. Skeletal system
5.2.4.2. Muscular system
5.2.4.3. Indicators of a problem
5.2.4.4. Manual and visual assessment of the back
5.2.5. The hindlimb area
5.2.5.1. Skeletal system
5.2.5.2. Muscular system
5.2.5.3. Indicators of a problem
5.2.5.4. Manual and visual assessment of the hindlimb
5.3. Muscle function
5.3.1. Linked muscle function
5.3.2. Antagonistic muscle function
5.3.3. Diagonal limb muscle function
5.4. Recommendations for thermography application
References

The book is available on CABI website: www.cabi.org

ABSTRACT:

Aim: The present study was aimed at identifying the key thermographic diagnostic areas essential for monitoring the effect of training on racehorses.
Method: The study involved monitoring 15 racehorses in 13 imaging sessions over a period of 10 months. Temperature measurements were made at a total of 46 regions of interest (ROIs) at the distal parts of the limbs and the back. In order to account for the influence of ambient temperature on each ROI measurement, values were adjusted to a constant ambient temperature of 12C, estimated using regression analysis. The horses in the study were divided into two groups based on the value of success rate in racing competition.
Results: During the research period none of the horses were identified as injured by routine veterinary investigation. Successful horses had significantly warmer adjusted ROI temperatures than their less successful counterparts at both carpal joints, the 3rd metacarpal bones, the left fetlock joint, the left front short pastern bone, the left tarsus joint, and the caudal part of the thoracic vertebrae.
Conclusion: The study tested a protocol for recording body surface temperature in racehorses which was shown to increase reliability by adjusting for variations in ambient temperature. When analyzed on the basis of sporting performance, the protocol identified 14 ROIs that were associated with superior performance, the majority of which were at the limbs on the left side.

Keywords: thermography; racehorses; sport performance; training

Fig. 1. Thermogram of dorsal aspect of distal part of forelimbs. Measured ROIs: DF1 – right carpal joint, dorsal aspect; DF2 – left carpal joint, dorsal aspect; DF3 – right 3rd metacarpal bone, dorsal aspect; DF4 – left 3rd metacarpal bone, dorsal aspect; DF5 – right fetlock joint, dorsal aspect; DF6 – left fetlock joint, dorsal aspect; DF7 – right short pastern bone, dorsal aspect; DF8 – left short pastern bone, dorsal aspect; DF9 – right hoof, dorsal aspect; DF10 – left hoof, dorsal aspect.

ABSTRACT:

One of the main advantages of equine thermography is the detection of subclinical inflammation. The present study was undertaken to determine a specific threshold value of temperature change indicative of subclinical inflammation of the lower parts of the horse’s limb. The study involved monitoring 20 racehorses over a period of 10 months. Temperatures of the third metacarpal region were measured every 3 weeks, allowing the average temperature differences to be ascertained between the same areas of forelimbs from the dorsal and palmar aspects in each session. Additionally, ultrasonographic and radiographic standard examinations of lower part of forelimbs were conducted to diagnose any pathological conditions of lower forelimbs. To determine the threshold value of temperature difference the receiver operating characteristic curve method was used, based on thermographic examinations of the same measured area in 20 horses. The threshold value of temperature difference indicative of subclinical inflammation was found to be 1.25_C. In conclusion, thermography can be used as a quick and practical diagnostic tool of subclinical inflammation. These results provide additional support from  the continued study of the equine thermography.

Keywords: thermography, inflammation, horses, racehorses

Fig. 1. Thermography image of palmar aspect of lower part of forelimbs. Examined areas on symmetrical lower part of forelimbs from palmar aspect are shown. Measured lines: L1 – proximal part of IIIed metacarpal bone; L3 – middle part of IIIed metacarpal bone; L5 – distal part of IIIed metacarpal bone. The length of each vertical line is equal to vertical lines A, B, C which divide superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) into three measurement areas (A, B, C) for ultrasonographic examination.

ABSTRACT:

Results of previous studies indicate the possibility of determining the impact of training on horses’ body surface temperature. The study was aimed at identifying the usefulness of thermography in monitoring annual training cycle of racehorses. The study involved 64 clinically healthy racehorses trained for flat racing in the 2011 and 2012 seasons. The study was based at measuring body surface temperature of the lower parts of forelimbs and back in 13 sessions in each season for a period of 10 months. On 3,328 thermographic images 24 regions of interest (ROI) were determined. In each ROI the average temperature was calculated (Tavg ° C). The surface temperature of the distal parts of forelimbs and the back measured at rest was increasing with each session, which was related to duration of the training cycle. The thermographic diagnosis was useful in monitoring changes of the body surface temperature in training cycle and in detecting injuries caused by training overloads.

Keywords: horses, racing, thermography, training

Fig. 1. Thermogram of dorsal aspect of back. Measured ROIs: B1 – cranial part of thoracic vertebrae dorsal aspect; B2 – caudal part of thoracic vertebrae dorsal aspect, dorsal aspect; BL1 – left side of thoracic vertebrae, dorsal aspect; BR1 – right side of thoracic vertebrae, dorsal aspect; B3 – lumbar vertebrae, dorsal aspect; B4 – sacroiliac joins.

ABSTRACT:

The aim of the study was to define efficiency of thermography as a complementary diagnostic method for lower part of forelimbs diagnosing during training cycle of racehorses. The study was conducted on 20 horses on which during the period of 6 months three examinations of thermography, USG and RTG of lower part of forelimbs were taken at the same time. The average temperature differences were measured from the dorsal and palmar views of the metacarpal bone in the same areas of the right and left forelimbs. The ultrasonography of the field cross-sectional area of the superficial digital flexor tendon detected differences between the same areas of metacarpal bone in right and left forelimbs. The radiography detected differences between the metacarpal bone cortex thickness in those limbs. For comparisons of three examinations results, rang Spearmana correlation coefficient  was used. Thermography and USG examinations were correlated in diagnosis of clinical signs of inflammation and there for can be used alternately. RTG examinations correlated with themography in the final stages of the inflammatory processes.

Keywords: thermography, ultrasonography, radiography, racehorses, orthopedic diseases

Fig 1. Thermography image of dorsal view of lower part of forelimbs. Examined areas on symmetrical lower part of forelimbs from dorsal aspect. Measured areas: G1, G2- medianum part of metacarpal bone; G3, G6 – Lateral part of metacarpal bone; G4, G5 – medial part of metacarpal bone
Fig 2. Radiographic image of lateral aspect of the left metacarpal bone.

ABSTRACT:

Thermography has been used for the diagnosis of skin temperature variations caused by overloads of the musculoskeletal system. The present study was aimed to evaluate the efficiency of thermography in monitoring racehorses’ musculoskeletal system response of back overloads due to increasing intensity of training cycle.. The thermographic examinations of 20 racehorses’ back were performed at Partynice Racing Track (Poland) every 3 weeks in twelve sessions during a period of 10 months. The back was divided into 5 areas: thoracic vertebrae (T), lumbar vertebrae (L), sacroiliac join (SIJ), and symmetric sides of the thoracic vertebrae area left side (ML) right side (MR). From each area the average temperature was measured. For statistic analyses the nonparametric Kruskal – Wallis test was used. An increase in the training intensity resulted in significant decreases in average temperature differences between T and L, T and SIJ, T and ML and T and MR. Constant training overloads of the musculoskeletal system under demanding exercise resulted in increased blood circulation of a back. The analysis of the surface temperature distribution over the horse’s back will allow to develop a model of blood circulation within this area in intensive training cycle. It will help specialists, breeders and veterinarians to analyse the fundamentals in physiological response of the musculoskeletal system to intensity of training. These results provide additional support for the continued study on the equine thermography.

Fig. 1. Thermogram of the back from dorsal aspect. Inflammation of the back muscles in the thoracic vertebrae area.
Fig. 2. Thermogram of the back from dorsal aspect. Inflammation of the spinous processes of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae.

ABSTRACT:

Thermography may be used as an effective tool for lameness detection in sport horses. The main advantage of thermographic diagnosis is predicting lameness before clinical signs occur.
The main objective of the study was to assess the usefulness of thermography for trainers monitoring horse’s limbs. The study was conducted on 14 Polish Halfbred (sp) and 14 Arabian (oo)  acing horses. Thermographic images of lower part of the limbs once per week for 6 weeks, were recorded. The temperature differences between symmetric parts of limbs were compared. For the analysis a Student’s t test, was applied. It was demonstrated that in 24 horses no changes occurred, and no lameness or associated problems, were reported. One of the remaining four horses demonstrated the forelimb overload, possibly associated with past injuries. Thermography assessment may be helpful for monitoring an intensive training of horses.

Keywords: thermography; horses; lameness, lower limb injury

Fig 1. Horse nr 1. Forelimbs from dorsal aspect, V session. Ambient temperature: 18.8°C, humidity:71.5%.

ABSTRACT:

Thermography is a noninvasive diagnostic method which detects infrared radiation emitted from the body surface. Detecting of body superficial skin temperature allows thermography to monitor pathological conditions of horse’s lower part of the limbs. The main advantage of thermography is detection of pathologic conditions for sore shins and inflammation of superficial digital flexor tendon before they become evident.

Keywords: thermography, equine, inflammation

Fig. 1. Thermogram of the distal part of the right and left forelimbs from dorsal aspect. Clinical inflammation of the right and left 3rd metacarpal bone.

ABSTRACT:

Thermography has  fund a broad  range of application as it is able to measure surface temperature. It has been seen studied as a useful diagnostic tool in veterinary medicine. Detecting of superficial skin temperature allows it to monitor pathological conditions  of horse’s  limbs and spine. The main advantage of thermography is detection of pathologic conditions before they become evident, providing extreme value in veterinary medicine diagnosis. Thermography is used in monitoring influence of  different medicines on superficial skin temperature distribution. It has also found application in horse breeding and in equine sports industry.

Keywords: thermography, horses, temperature , lameness

Fig 1. Thermogram of the distal part of the left and right forelimbs from palmar aspect. Inflammation of the superficial digital flexor tendon of the left forelimb.

ABSTRACT:

The interests of equine body superficial temperature distribution, is useful in understanding the fundamental physiological changes in response to external environment, training overloads and pathological conditions. Usefulness of equine thermography has been proved in the aspect of training, management and veterinary diagnosis, including  pathological conditions associated mainly with inflammation processes. Thermographic images distribute the map of body superficial temperature determining the warmest and the coldest area on the horse’s body. The body superficial temperature is changing in response to external environmental conditions and physiological effort.   The left to right body symmetry  of the superficial temperature distribution were indicated. That allowed to diagnose unilateral pathological conditions mainly associated with orthopedic and spine diseases. It was found that the main advantage of equine thermography is the detection of subclinical inflammation.

Keywords: thermography, horses, superficial body temperature

Fot. 1. Thermogram of the ledt lateral aspect of the horse. The warmest areas of the body are presented in white and red colors, yellow and green colors present cooler areas, blue and navy colors represent the coldest areas of the body.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction: Thermography is non-invasive and non-contact diagnostic tool, which detects infra-red radiation emitted from body surface, mapping superficial skin surface temperature. It has been studied that the main advantage of thermography is detection of early subclinical signs of inflammation. In many studies thermography was used for lameness diagnosis of  young racing horses, which are put under extreme physical demands causing many injuries especially of lower part of the front limbs. It is associated with overloading of musculoskeletal system resulting in lameness and performance loss. Thermography has been found as a useful equine diagnostic tool in recognizing of unilateral abnormalities such as: navicular syndrome, laminitis, inflammation of tendons, carpus and tarsus joints. It has been study that thermography can indicate subclinical signs of inflammation before clinical signs become evident, playing an essential role in preventing lameness in racing horses.
Objective: The objective of the study was to predict subclinical signs of pathology inflammation associated with intensive training of young Polish Halfbred (sp) and Arabian (oo) race horses during training cycle applying temperature analysis of lower part of front limbs for bilateral pathology.
Materials and Methods: The study was based on 20 flat racing horses (12 sp and 8 oo) in age of 3 years, kept in Training Centre. Thermographic images of lower part of front limbs  from cranial view were taken every third week for 6 months (for 12 sp) and for 4 months (for 8 oo). Environmental conditions were recorded during each session and included the ambient air temperature and humidity inside the yard. During the measurement period the thermal images were regularly discussed and compared with trainer’s concerns and observations. Thermography camera VarioCAM equipped with an uncooled microbolometer focal plane arrays (FPA) detector, with geometrical resolution of 640 x 480 pixels made by InfraTec was used for comparing average temperatures of symmetrical areas of lower part of the limb. The 32 bit software suite IRBIS 3 Professional program, InfraTec company was used for the analysis of thermographic images. Environmental temperature and humidity was measured by a digital psychrometer model C200, produced by Lufft Company. The symmetrical areas of the lower part of the limb : carpus joint (X1- right, X2- left) metacarpal bone (X3- right, X4 – left): long pastern, short pastern bone ( X5- right, X6-left) hoof (X6- right,X7-left) from cranial view were identified and analyzed for average temperature differences for each horse during research cycle. The results were analyzed using a Student’s t-test to compare average temperature differences of each area between symmetrical right and left measured area of each horse. The level of significance was determined as (0,05), great significant (0,01), most significant (0,001).
Results: From the total 20 horses : 16 showed no changes in their soundness, and no lameness or other associated problems were reported for these horses over the period of investigation. Remaining 4 horses demonstrated subclinical signs of inflammation caused by sore shire in the area of the metacarpal bone. During the cycle research Horses A,B,C and D in the sessions: III -VI indicated constant increased temperature of the right and left metacarpal bone indicating early stages of inflammation process. Inflammation of bilateral metacarpal bones was confirmed by veterinary between IV and V session. In case of Horse D in session IV area of the right metacarpal bone had statistically increased temperature, indicating subclinical stages of inflammation. Inflammation process in the area of the right metacarpal bone were confirmed by veterinary between V and VI session. In VII session area of injured metacarpal bone of A,B,C,D Horses demonstrated decreased of the temperature, indicating healing process what was confirmed by veterinary.
Summary: Applied method of comparing average temperatures value of symmetrical areas , monitored during the research cycle allowed detection abnormalities also in case of their bilateral accrue of symmetrical areas. Thermography assessment accelerated identification of subclinical signs of inflammation, about 4 weeks before clinical signs has occurred. Current study proofed that infra-red diagnosis is useful in detection of pathology when images are taken regularly, within a specified period of time and they are properly interpreted. It will help in  protection and identification of lower limb pathology.

Keywords: thermography, temperature analyzes, inflammation, horses