Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Preventing Injury to a Horse, of Course

Preventing Injury to a Horse, of Course

The world of thoroughbred horse racing has been struck with major tragedies in the last few years, most recently involving Kentucky Derby runner-up Eight Belles. But a newly-developed monitoring system may help to prevent such injuries in horses and humans alike. The system uses technology similar to that used by earthquake seismologists to detect tiny cracks in bones. Researchers can detect micro-cracks in the bone structure by recording acoustic emission data, allowing the person or horse to terminate strenuous activity and allow the bone to heal.

1 comment:

Pamela said...

Would love to see this techology used to prevent further tragedies. The entire industry needs so many changes and regulations. Abolish the whips, steroids, toe grabs, and all the other dangerous and inhumane conditions which challenge the welfare of the magnificent equestrian athletes. "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mahatma Gandhi