Therapeutic Massage and Myofascial Release Techniques

Deep-tissue pain and myofascial pain syndrome can be excruciating for our pets, particularly because it’s pain that is difficult to avoid. At 4Paws Rehabilitation & Wellness Clinic, we offer many techniques that can help ease this pain and improve your pet’s quality of life.

Myofascial pain syndrome is characterized by pain and swelling of the myofascial tissue, connective tissue that supports and protects the bones and muscles.

Massage and manual therapy, or soft-tissue mobilizations, are extremely important in evaluating and treating canine patients. Manual techniques like massage are used to find abnormal tissue, muscle length and tightness, limitations in movement and flexibility, adhesions in the tissue and muscle, pain in ligaments and tendons and other painful areas or trigger points. Manual treatment involves a variety of soft tissue techniques as well as range of motion stretching and joint glides or manipulations. Musculoskeletal and manual manipulations (joint glides) involve the movement of joints to improve motion, prevent adhesions between the tissues, improve blood and lymph flow, improve joint fluid and alignment and relieve pain.

We employ many massage techniques including effleurage, petrissage, cross friction, tapotement, ischemic compression, trigger point release, myofascial release and acupressure.

Massage techniques improve circulation, reduce adhesions and scar tissue, release the myofascial layer, eliminate trigger points, decrease muscle spasms, improve flexibility, reduce swelling, promote healing and decrease pain. Massage also affects the central nervous system, reducing the release of stress hormones, which in turn leads to better blood flow, decreased respiratory rate and better digestion.

Each patient receives a thorough evaluation before we decide on the best techniques for them. 4Paws will work with you to create a treatment plan that works best for your specific pet.

Contact 4Paws Rehabilitation & Wellness Clinic for more information about how massage can help your pet.