Surgery and Radiology Section

HOPPING REACTION AND EXTENSOR POSTURAL THRUST REACTION

Hopping reaction

• The hopping of the thoracic limbs is tested with the animal in the position for wheel barrowing with one thoracic limb lifted from the ground.
• The entire weight of animal is supported on one limb; the patient is move forward, laterally and medially. Hopping of the pelvic limb is assist similarly.
• The cow, horse, giant breeds of dogs can be tested by lifting one limb and shifting the weight of animal.
• So that it hops on the opposite limb alternatively, the animal can be pulled by the tail or push laterally to elicit movements similar to the hopping reaction(Sway reaction)

Extensor postural thrust reaction

• It is elicited by supporting the animal by thorax caudal to the thoracic limb and lowering the pelvic limbs to the floor.
• When the limb touches the floor they should move caudally in a symmetric walking movement to achieve a position of support.
• As animal is lowered to the floor it extends its limbs anticipating contact.
• This is a vestibular reaction and seen in animals with lesions of the vestibular system.