Force platform for rats measures fore and hind forces concurrently.

Animal models are commonly used to test the efficacy of impact loading regimens on bone strength. We designed an inexpensive force platform to concurrently measure the separate peak vertical impact forces produced by the fore and hindfeet of immature F-344 rats when dropped onto the platform. The force platform consisted of three load cells placed in a triangular pattern under a flat plate.

Effect of width of disk fenestration and a ventral slot on biomechanics of the canine C5-C6 vertebral motion unit.

Objective: To investigate the effects of disk fenestration and ventral slot formation on vertebral motion unit (VMU) range of motion (ROM) and determine the effects of fenestration and ventral slot width on VMU ROM.

Sample Population: C5-C6 VMUs from 10 skeletally mature canine cadavers.

Procedures: Specimens were assigned to 2 groups (5 specimens/group).