Evaluation of Change in Center of Pressure During Perturbation of Balance Including Blindfolding in Healthy Dogs

TL;DR

This study examines how balance exercises and vision loss affect postural stability in healthy dogs using center of pressure measurements.

Contribution

The study introduces a method to evaluate balance challenges in dogs using external perturbations and blindfolding.

Findings

External perturbation significantly increased postural sway in healthy dogs.

Blindfolding and head turning had large effect sizes but no significant differences compared to quiet standing.

Perturbation-based exercises show potential for canine rehabilitation.

Abstract

Postural control and rehabilitation are emerging areas of study in veterinary medicine. In dogs, the effects of rehabilitation-based balance exercises and vision loss on postural control remain understudied. The present study evaluated these effects using changes in center of pressure parameters, finding that external perturbation significantly challenged postural stability, whereas there were no statistical differences in head turn or blindfolded animals. Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of balance exercises and their application in dogs with pre-existing orthopedic and neurological conditions.

Physiotherapy aims to improve postural dysfunction, often using balance exercises. The effects of rehabilitation-based balance exercises on postural control in dogs remains understudied. This study aimed to assess the impact of specific balancing exercises and blindfolding on center of pressure parameters in healthy dogs. Thirteen healthy adult dogs participated in the study. Center of pressure parameters were measured using a pressure platform during quiet standing, external perturbation, head turn, and blindfolded trials. External perturbation significantly increased the area of the elliptical sway, cranio-caudal excursion, and right–left excursion. Head turning led to large effect sizes, but no significant differences compared to quiet standing. Blindfolding led to medium to large effect sizes, though no significant differences were observed. The study confirmed that external perturbation challenges postural stability, resulting in increased sway. Head turning induces sway but may require further training or different methodologies for reliable outcomes. Blindfolding increased sway but was not statistically different. These findings underscore the potential use of perturbation-based exercises in canine rehabilitation to improve balance, while also highlighting the need for further studies to standardize balance challenges and explore the effects in dogs with orthopedic or neurological conditions.

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