Evaluation of Change in Centre of Force During Perturbation of Balance in Healthy Dogs

Introduction: Disruptions in systems involved in maintaining postural control can increase the risk of injury. Physiotherapy aims to improve postural dysfunction, often using balance exercises. Current veterinary research has not evaluated the effects of rehabilitation-based balance exercises on postural control in dogs. This study aims to assess the impact of specific balancing exercises on centre of force (COF) parameters in healthy dogs. Understanding these effects on balance is important for evaluating rehabilitation efficacy and may be useful in monitoring recovery.

Materials and Methods: Thirteen healthy adult dogs, free of orthopaedic or neurological disorders, participated in the study. Their centre of force (COF) parameters were measured using a Tekscan pressure platform during quiet standing and various perturbation conditions. Each dog, if tolerated, underwent external mediolateral perturbations, head turns, and blindfolded trials for three to five trials of 5 seconds.

Results: Significant changes were observed in COF parameters during external perturbations and head turns, particularly in the craniocaudal excursion and the area of the ellipse. There were no significant differences with blindfolding, although COF parameters were generally increased compared with quiet standing.

Discussion/Conclusion: The findings suggest that specific balance exercises effectively challenge postural stability in healthy dogs, which aligns with our hypothesis that such practices would increase sway. The significant alterations in COF parameters underscore the potential benefits of tailored physiotherapy for dogs with orthopaedic or neurological conditions. Future research should involve larger, more diverse samples and explore the long-term effects of balance training on recovery outcomes.

Acknowledgment

None.

 

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Publication History

Article published online:
15 July 2025