Page 82 - Canine Lameness

54 4 The Neurologic Examination

and PNS must be functioning normal to have a normal response, these tests do not provide precise
localizing information. In this respect, they can detect nervous system dysfunction but are not
specific to localize within a region of the nervous system.
Postural reactions (Figure 4.4 and 4.2) are response tests; they are not spinal reflexes. When per-
forming an initial screening examination, at minimum proprioceptive placement (paw replace-
ment) and hopping should be performed on each patient. If they are normal, the other reactions

(A) (B)

(C) (D)

Figure 4.4 Testing postural reactions using proprioceptive placement (paw replacement) in the
(A) thoracic and (B) pelvic limbs. The examiner places one hand under the sternum or pelvic symphysis to
support the patient’s body weight and maintain a midline center of gravity, while the hand on the same
side as the limb being tested, flips the paw onto its dorsum. Placing a hand under the (C) caudal abdomen
should be avoided since replacement of the paw tends to be less consistent. (D) For placing reactions or the
“paper test,” a sheet of paper or cardboard is placed beneath each of the patient’s limbs beginning in a
neutral weight-bearing position. The paper is then steadily and slowly pulled laterally until the patient
repositions the limb.