Balance Beam
IACUC Standard Procedure
Effective Date: June 2024
Description of procedure:
The balance beam is a test of motor coordination and balance. To assess motor coordination, an animal is trained to traverse a beam and is evaluated on its ability to maintain balance. Round beams are generally harder than square/rectangular-shaped beams, and the narrower the beam, the more challenging the test.
Supplies:
- Balance beams necessary to evaluate the animals for the study
- Padding (covered in plastic so can be cleaned after use)
- Enclosed black “goal” box and nesting materials
- Lighting fixture and lighting source
Procedure Steps:
- Padding is positioned under the beam to prevent injury from falls. Ensure the padded landing area is enclosed or raised to prevent the animal from escaping.
- An animal is placed on the beam, opposite from and facing the escape box. A bright light may be used to illuminate the path, the mouse to walk across the beam toward the enclosed box.
- Latency to cross the beam, the number of times the feet slip off the beam, and latency to fall are typically recorded. Maximum trial duration is typically up to 1 minute. It is recommended that the individual conducting this test be facing the dorsum of the animal, as it is typically the back paws that slip. This cannot be easily seen when viewed from the side of the animal. The trial can be recorded, and foot-misplacements can be scored from the video.
- Animals will be evaluated for pain or distress after falls. Any animals showing signs of either pain or distress will be placed in the home cage and if necessary, the veterinary team contacted if the animal does not rapidly recover.
- The beam should be cleaned between each animal.