Goniometric study of young and adult Saanen goats

Abstract

Using the goniometric method, it is possible to take measures of extension, flexion, abduction, and adduction of a synovial joint. The aim of this study was to use goniometry to compare flexion and extension of fore and hind limbs of Saanen goats at different ages. Flexion and extension angles of the shoulder, elbow, and carpus joints, as well as of the thigh, stifle, and tarsus joints, were measured using a standard goniometer on 10 six-month-old goats and on 15 three-year-old goats. The range of motion was reduced in all joints of the adult animals compared to that of the younger animals, but the difference was statistically significant only for the shoulder, elbow, stifle, and tarsus. It was noted that the greater muscle volume of adult animals influenced the flexion capacity of limbs (statistically verified for all joints), whereas young animals reached a more complete flexion with smaller angles than in adults. Therefore, we have shown that age affects goniometric measurements of synovial joints in Saanen goats. Such data may be useful in evaluation of joints in other goats.