Are there laterality differences in passive flexion and extension of the proximal limb joints in working Siberian Husky dogs?

Differences between left and right-side joint range of motion may affect canine locomotive ability and movement. Passive range of motion (PROM) joint measurement provides the limits that a particular joint can move in its physiological planes of motion without influence of muscle activity. To compare left and right-side flexion and extension of the glenohumeral, humeroulnar/humeroradial, coxofemoral and femorotibial joints and for laterality PROM differences. Siberian Husky dogs were selected (n = 18) of mixed gender, aged (1.4–11.8) years living and working together from a single kennel. Joint PROM was measured using goniometry, a validated, non-invasive method, by the same investigator previously tested for acceptable measurement repeatability. Dogs were conscious and placed in standing position. Triplicate measures of joint flexion and extension were taken on both sides of each dog for afore-mentioned joints. Median values of triplicate measures were computed. Paired t-tests compared laterality of joint PROM, gender, age (< 6 vs. > 6 years) effects. Inferential symmetry indices [SI] were calculated. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between left and right-side flexion and extension measures for all joints. Gender had no significant effect (p > 0.05) on joint flexion or extension measures for all joints. Age (< 6 vs. > 6 years) had a significant effect on right hip flexion (p < 0.001) and for both left and right-side shoulder flexion (p < 0.001); elbow flexion (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001); hip extension (p = 0.02 and p < 0.001) respectively. The shoulder joint showed greatest PROM asymmetry (SI = 3.63%). Bilateral PROM measures are important to consider in joint movement and assessment. These results warrant further investigation with larger cohorts of defined age groups.