VET 403: MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM & ORTHOPEDICS
MODULE 1: COMPARATIVE SKELETAL ANATOMY
- Bone classification and histology
- Species-specific bone differences (equine vs canine vs bovine)
- Joint anatomy: synovial, fibrous, cartilaginous
- Ligaments, tendons, and fasciae
- Articular cartilage: composition, nutrition, degeneration
MODULE 2: MUSCLE PHYSIOLOGY & BIOMECHANICS
- Muscle fiber types: slow-twitch oxidative vs fast-twitch glycolytic
- Contraction mechanisms: actin-myosin cross-bridges
- Energy metabolism in muscle
- Biomechanics of locomotion across species
- Weight distribution and load-bearing
MODULE 3: LAMENESS EVALUATION
- History taking in lameness cases
- Physical examination: visual gait assessment, palpation, range of motion
- Flexion tests and diagnostic anesthesia (joint blocks)
- Lameness grading scales (AAEP for horses)
- Localization: high vs low lameness
MODULE 4: PATHOLOGIC RESPONSES TO MSK INJURY
- Inflammation and repair processes
- Degenerative joint disease (OA/DJD)
- Fracture healing: inflammatory, soft callus, hard callus, remodeling phases
- Tendon and ligament injuries
- Systemic changes in chronic MSK disease
MODULE 5: ORTHOPEDIC CONDITIONS
- Hip dysplasia (canine, feline, equine)
- Laminitis (equine)
- Osteochondrosis (dissecans)
- Arthritis and osteoarthritis
- Ligamentous injuries (MCL, ACL)