Table 3 Commonly employed behavioural tests of forelimb function

NSS

Awards an overall score for determining general deficit

+Encompasses a range of assessments, then compiles them into a single measure

-Time intensive;

-Does not inform about the nature of specific deficits;

Cylinder test

Assesses spontaneous forelimb use

+Fast and easy to administer;

-Video analysis can be time intensive

+Allows for analysis of a number of functional movements

Montoya staircase test

Assesses forelimb extension, dexterity, side bias, independent use of forelimbs

+Easy to administer;

-Intensive tests training which requires food deprivation;

-May confound results of task-

+Allows for analysis of both reaching distance and forepaw dexterity

specific rehabilitation if performed often

Single pellet reaching task

Assesses forelimb dexterity

+Allows for in-depth analysis of the animal’s performance by isolating a single reach attempt

-Intensive tests training which requires food deprivation;

-May confound results of task-specific rehabilitation if performed often

Horizontal ladder test

Assesses forelimb stepping, placing, and coordination during locomotion

+Can assess forelimb and hind limb damage

-Can be complicated by post-surgical immobility

Forelimb flexion test

Assesses postural reflex

+Fast and easy to administer

-Measures only postural reflexive position,

-Only awards a 0–2 score.

Forelimb placing test

Assesses forelimb function and placing deficits

+Fast and easy to administer

-Measures only reflexive sensorimotor response;

-Can be difficult to distinguish between reflexive response and initiated movement, therefore experimenter must be experienced at determining validity