Use of a poll‐mounted accelerometer for quantification and characterisation of equine trigeminal‐mediated headshaking

• DOI: 10.1111/evj.14132
• Publication Date: 2024-07-18T04:44:24Z
• Authors: Kirstie Jane Pickles; David J. Marlin; Jane Michelle Wil...; Veronica L. H. Ro...
• Keywords: Interquartile range

Abstract Background Equine trigeminal‐mediated (TGM) headshaking (HS) is a neuropathic facial pain syndrome characterised by varying intensity and frequencies of head movements signs nasal irritation. An accurate method for quantification and/or characterisation HS severity lacking. Objectives To develop validate an objective measure TGMHS. Study design Prospective case control study. Methods Horses presenting investigation were recruited alongside those forelimb lameness (LAME) pre‐purchase examination as well healthy controls (CONTROL). Head movement data collected 5 min whilst trotting on the lunge using tri‐axial accelerometer, with range ±16 g sampling rate 800 Hz, attached to bridle headpiece. Recordings exported processing. Peak detection was performed minimum maximum thresholds −1 +1 (corrected gravity) peak width 10 samples. Results Fifty‐six horses included in study; 18 TGMHS, non‐TGMHS, 12 LAME 16 CONTROL. Characteristics frequency vertical ( Z axis) TGMHS differed significantly from other horses. had peaks greater mean positive g‐force P < 0.005) lower negative 0.001), peaks/min 0.001) over times percentage >+2 compared 0.001). Receiver operator curve characteristics (CI 0.72–0.95), <−2 0.66–0.92) 0.72–0.96) showed excellent discrimination LAME, CONTROL non‐TGMHS Main limitations Referral population horses, small sample size not evaluated orthopaedic disease. Conclusions Accelerometer exercise provides can differentiate between normal associated lameness. use may aid diagnosis monitoring management strategies.