Elastic properties of the forefoot of the Donkey, <i>Equus asinus</i>

Abstract

The elastic properties of the forefeet of Donkeys, and of tendons removed from the feet, have been investigated in dynamic tests at a frequency chosen to simulate running. The elastic properties of the foot are explained in terms of the properties of individual tendons and check ligaments. The elastic strain energy stored in the foot, during a trotting step, is calculated to be only a little less than the optimum quantity which would minimize the work required of the muscles in this gait. Frictional and viscous energy losses were fairly small in the experiments on feet, and would probably be smaller in the intact animal.