Quantification of functional behavior in humans and animals: time for a paradigm shift

Measuring the effectiveness of interventions aimed at restoring motor function will be critical in deciding which animal trials should be translated to human studies. While various methods of quantifying motor behavior exist, many of these rely on observation and interpretation. Kinematic analysis is an objective means of quantifying temporal relationships and coordination within and between limbs during motor performance. These relationships offer valuable information on the condition and organization of the underlying neural circuitry. Kinematic data can drive a number of powerful analyses. These analyses can help detect nuances in motor performance and answer questions about the effectiveness of interventions designed to restore motor function.