Veterinary Biomechanics Laboratory

About us

In this lab, Surrey students of veterinary medicine, veterinary biosciences and engineering programmes have the opportunity to do their research project with us and/or become postgraduate students.

Musculoskeletal biomechanics

Musculoskeletal biomechanics is the study of the mechanical laws relating the structure and function of movement of animals (including humans). It consists in the analysis of movement (kinematics) and the forces (kinetics) that allow locomotion (jumping, trotting, flying, etc.) and many specialised movements and postures during activities such as respiration and feeding (e.g. mandibular movement). The gait of the animals can be quantified and described in healthy animals, geriatric animals, diseased animals, animal athletes performing sport disciplines and training. Although it most commonly used in dogs in horses, it can be used to study any specie from mice to elephants.

Musculoskeletal biomechanics during lameness and disease

The effect of surgical, medical and rehabilitation treatments can be objectively quantified with biomechanical tools to produce evidence-based information directly benefiting patients.

Performing gait analysis during rehabilitation provides an excellent biofeedback to tailor the use of physiotherapy, rehabilitation and controlled exercise programmes to each individual.

Research

The latest and most innovative technology of the Laboratory allows us to perform indoor and outdoor studies, including the use of motion capture cameras, foot pressure analysis, accelerometer-based systems (inertial measurement units) and more.

We are able to perform studies in our facilities at Surrey, out in the field and at partner venues by using mobile and/or wireless equipment.

Currently, our research aims to study dog and horse biomechanics, particularly lameness, core strength and posture, and physiotherapy and rehabilitation.

We closely collaborate with Centre for Biomedical Engineering and other research groups from the University and abroad, carrying out studies in key areas of musculoskeletal biology.

Research projects

• Postural Stability and Kinematics of Dachshunds
• Accelerometer-Based System for Lameness Quantification in Dogs
• Assessing the relationships between Conformation, Gait and Health and Welfare in Canine Breeds
• Biomechanics of canine physiotherapy
• Biomechanics of equine physiotherapy