Avian gait analysis

Corr, Sandra A. (1999) Avian gait analysis. PhD thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

Two methods were used in this research. The pedobarograph is a relatively novel method of gait analysis for animals which enables footfall patterns to be recorded, enabling spatial parameters (step length, width and angle) and plantar pressure patterns to be described and measured. A Kistler force plate was then used to measure the three-dimensional ground reaction forces (GRF's) produced during walking. Speed and cadence can be calculated using either system. Gait patterns are described for normal birds, and for different strains of broilers, raised on different feeding regimes. All the gait parameters were very variable, both between birds, and within the same bird, even when bodyweight and speed were controlled for. Despite the high variability, however, significant differences were identified in many of the gait parameters between the different groups. The vertical and craniocaudal GRF's of Brown Leghorns showed similar characteristics to those produced in human walking. The peak vertical forces were of a similar order of magnitude in the birds as in humans (125-150 % bodyweight), and the peak craniocaudal forces, and the rate of change of force, were closely tied to speed. All the GRF's in the birds increased significantly with increasing speed, except for braking rate (which was more variable) and stance time (which decreased significantly). The mediolateral forces were much greater in the birds than have been reported for other species, however, with peaks of 10-22% bodyweight. Analysis of plantar pressures showed that the pressure were concentrated on the digital pads, with the lowest pressure on the metatarsal pad (131 kNm-2), and highest pressure on the medial toe (up to 218 kNm-2).Combined gait analysis and morphometric studies of ad libitum-fed selected broilers identified many ways in which their gait deviated from that of relaxed broilers and Brown Leghorns, in ways which would serve to increase stability and decrease stresses on the skeleton.

• Item Type: Thesis (PhD)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Subjects: S Agriculture > SF Animal culture > SF600 Veterinary Medicine
• Colleges/Schools: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
• Supervisor's Name: Gentle, Dr. Mike and Bennett, Prof. Dave
• Date of Award: 1999
• Depositing User: Miss Louise Annan
• Unique ID: glathesis:1999-6629
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 19 Aug 2015 11:16
• Last Modified: 16 Sep 2015 09:06
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/6629