Kinematics of locomotion in cats with partially deafferented spinal cords: the spared-root preparation

The spinal cord was partially deafferented in two cats by dorsal rhizotomy sparing the dorsal root, L6. Kinematic methods were used to study movements of the pelvis and the affected hindlimb during treadmill walking. The E2 yield of the ankle 2 days postsurgery was of greater duration and extent than normal. Longer duration remained at 14 days, whereas the extent was normal by 5 days. Knee displacement was limited during E3. Lateral oscillations of the pelvis were exaggerated initially, but normal by 14 days. Pelvic shift over the contralateral limb suggested abnormal loading patterns during early recovery. These qualitative descriptions of motor recovery are consistent with reported central nervous system responses following partial deafferentation.