Columbus Instruments' Foot Misplacement Apparatus is a specialized tool designed for evaluating sensorimotor function and recovery in small animals. This apparatus is ideal for studies involving brain and spinal cord injury, providing researchers with accurate measurements of sensorimotor performance through automated detection and conditioning techniques.

Variable Rung Spacing for Versatile Testing

The Foot Misplacement Apparatus comes with two stainless steel horizontal ladders with different rung spacings to suit both rats and mice. For added flexibility, the "Adjustable Rung Upgrade" allows researchers to modify rung spacing to meet specific experimental requirements.

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Integrated Electric Conditioning for Effective Training

A dark compartment at one end of the ladder encourages animals to move towards the safety of the dark cover. An electric conditioning stimulus punishes animals with a mild, non-sensory current if they touch the metal plate below, facilitating effective training and conditioning.

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Automatic Misstep Detection with Non-Sensory Electric Current

The apparatus incorporates an advanced automated misstep detection system, which accurately measures resistance changes between the ladder and metal plate when the animal makes contact. Each misstep is detected, amplified, and counted by a computerized counter, providing precise data on sensorimotor function. The detection current remains well below the animal's sensitivity threshold, ensuring safe testing without causing any discomfort or distress, allowing for accurate sensorimotor recovery measurements.

• Material: Stainless steel ladders
• Ladder Spacing: Variable; adjustable with "Adjustable Rung Upgrade"
• Detection Method: Change in resistance between ladder and metal plate
• Conditioning Stimulus: Mild electric current below animal sensitivity threshold
• Measurement: Automated misstep counting via computerized counter