Early detection of bovine lameness offers the potential for effective treatment and effectual management of hoof
and leg ailments. This technical note examines statistical relationships between visually derived lameness scores and
mechanically derived limb movement variables (LMVs) for sound and lame dairy cows. The visually derived lameness scores
were based on observations of arched backs while cows stood and walked. The mechanically derived LMVs were captured
as cows walked freely over a patent–pending force–plate system that generates signatures of ground reaction forces. A
statistical model evaluated a lameness index (LI) using peak ground reaction force (PGRF). The LI allowed the 23 cows to
be classified correctly according to their visually derived lameness scores, with three exceptions. This pilot study
demonstrated that the outputs of our force–plate system can be used to relate lameness scores to measurable LMVs.