Is a Pressure Walkway System Able to Highlight a Lameness in Dog?

The aim of this study was to evaluate spatio-temporal and pressure parameters of lame large-breed dogs at a walk compared to sound dogs and to assess left/right limb symmetry and fore/hind limb ratio of those parameters. A 4.3 m electronic walkway system was used to record and calculate spatio-temporal and pressure parameters in 8 healthy and 4 lame adult large-breed dogs at walk. At walk, gait was found symmetrical for all sound dogs, and no significant difference was detected for the left and right symmetry for any parameters. The values of fore/hind limb ratio showed a more significant distribution on the forelimb rather than the hind limb for the stance time, relative stance time; for the peak vertical pressure and number of activated sensors. This system was able to determine and quantify the asymmetry and abnormal gait on lame dogs. Modification of the fore/hind limb ratio has been observed with abnormal postures due to orthopedic lesions. The results from this study corresponded well with the clinical signs and radiological examination. The evaluation of symmetry was quicker and easier way to perform than comparing the absolute values of each parameter. The left /right symmetry and fore/hind limb ratio may be a good way to qualify and quantify a gait for lame dogs in a clinical setting. Based on these results, the pressure walk way proved to be a quick and useful tool for gait analysis and for long term lameness follow-up.