Goniometric evaluation of both forelimbs and hind limbs in sheep of two different ages

Conceicao R. T., Rahal S. C., Agostinho F. S., Teixeira C. R., Araujo F. A. P. & Monteiro F.O.B. 2012. [Goniometric evaluation of both forelimbs and hind limbs in sheep of two different ages.] Goniometria dos membros toracicos e pelvicos de ovinos com duas faixas etarias. Pesquisa Veterinaria Brasileira 32(8): 812-816. Departamento de Cirurgia e Anestesiologia Veterinaria, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinaria e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Botucatu, Distrito de Rubiao Junior s/n, Botucatu, SP 18600-970, Brazil. E-mail: sheilacr@fmvz.unesp.br The purpose of this study was to compare goniometric values for forelimb and hind limbs in clinically healthy Santa Ines sheep with two ages (young and adult). Thirty female Santa Ines sheep were separated into two groups of 15 animals each: Group 1 with 6 to 12-month-old sheep (classified as young), and Group 2 with 3 to 6-year-old sheep (classified as adult). Maximum flexion, maximum extension, and range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder, elbow, carpal, hip, stifle, and tarsal joints, in the right and left limbs were measured with a standard transparent plastic goniometer. The measurements were performed in triplicate by two independent investigators with the sheep in a standing position. There was no statistically significant difference between the right and left sides, between investigators or between groups. In conclusion, in clinically healthy sheep the goniometric values were not influenced by age.