Assessment of Gait Symmetry and Peak Vertical Force in Small-sized Dogs with Experimentally Induced Forelimb Lameness

This study examines load redistribution mechanisms in six small-sized dogs subjected to induced right forelimb lameness during leash walking. The purpose of this investigation, utilizing this experimentally induced lameness, is to determine the compensatory patterns in animal patients presenting with forelimb injuries.

Peak vertical force (PVF) and symmetry indices (SI) were used as metrics to analyze load distribution across all four limbs under both sound (control) and lame conditions.

The results indicated a significant reduction in PVF in the ipsilateral forelimb (91.33±26.39) during lameness, accompanied by a compensatory increase in the contralateral forelimb (121.72±26.44). The symmetry indices further reflected the degree of asymmetry, with forelimb SI increasing from 8.19±4.88 (sound) to 34.24±20.26 (lame) and hindlimb SI increasing from 8.43±8.16 (sound) to 16.54±11.83 (lame). These findings highlight the significant compensatory mechanisms that occur in response to forelimb lameness in small-sized dogs, with increased loading on the contralateral limbs to compensate for the reduced function of the affected limb. This study provides valuable insights into the biomechanical adjustments in small-sized dogs with lameness, which may inform clinical approaches to diagnosis and rehabilitation.