Inertial measurement unit systems offer good repeatability across trials and function in differing environmental conditions. They provide objective assessment of changes in lameness after flexion tests and local analgesia. However, inertial measurement units require precise and time-consuming sensor placement, as well as establishment of a wireless connection. In contrast, camera-based systems have a faster setup, are less expensive, and are portable. They also allow owner-recorded videos to be uploaded for at-home analysis. Camera-based systems frequently require more trot-up and are more sensitive to suboptimal environmental conditions. The use of α-2 agonists during lameness evaluation can mask forelimb lameness but have limited effects on hind limb lameness. Tranquilizers generally do not interfere with gait analysis. In summary, objective gait analysis is a useful aid for clinicians in assessing mild or multilimb lameness and should be used in conjunction with subjective lameness evaluation.
Zullo et al. (Wed,) studied this question.