ABSTRACT
The equine forelimb, or thoracic limb, forms no direct articulation with the trunk and is instead supported in position via a musculature sling. Hence, the most proximal bony articulation of the equine forelimb is the glenohumeral joint, which is comprised of the spherical head of the humerus articulating with the glenoid cavity of the scapula. The distal forelimb is ultimately devoid of muscles and is instead propelled forward through the pull of tendons and ligaments that arise from muscles of the proximal forelimb and shoulder girdle. The skeleton of the equine distal forelimb is highly specialised in order to manage substantial loads and achieve high locomotory efficiency. The suspensory apparatus prevents hyperextension of the fetlock joint and exists as a critical component of the passive stay apparatus, which provides passive resistance to flexion of other joints in the forelimb when under load.
