Certified Canine Therapist cal@dogsbodyhealth.com.au

Canine Remedial Massage v Canine Myofunctional Therapy

May 3, 2021 | Cal Savage
Certified canine therapists call themselves either canine remedial massage therapists or canine myofunctional therapists. The differences in name are really only due to the different training courses and the choice of title made by those that designed the course.

Remedial massage is used to prevent dysfunction and injury as well as treat and rehabilitate dysfunction when it arises. Myofunctional therapy takes its name from 'myo' which means muscle and 'function' which it aims to maintain and restore.

Can any dog have a remedial massage?

DogsBody Health provides canine remedial massage to treat a variety of canine musculoskeletal issues. Typically we are operating on a vet's referral or recommendation to assist with pain management and facilitate improvements in joint and muscular health. This may be treating elderly dogs affected by arthritis, dogs undergoing surgery for injury or joint repair or for active dogs needing injury management. Canine remedial massage is also useful in calming anxious dogs and for general health and well-being.

What happens in a canine remedial massage appointment?

Canine remedial massage techniques can be performed on dogs of all shapes, sizes, ages and activity levels. Whether your dog is a family pet, working dog or rescued greyhound, massage sessions will involve some assessment of the dog in standing, moving and performing simple movements such as sitting to standing and a discussion regarding the history of the presenting issues such as onset and development and how your dog is able to perform activities of daily living such as peeing, pooping and exercising. Massage strokes are then used to treat the affected and compensating areas. Massage techniques include effleurage, kneading, compressions, wringing and myofascial release to manipulate the muscles and fascia.

How often does a dog need massage?

A suggested treatment plan will be discussed during the appointment. The frequency and duration of massages will depend on many factors and is individual to each dog as it would be in people. DogsBody Health can also recommend general advice such as home modifications to improve your dog's quality of life and recommend aligned businesses. Please contact us for further guidance.

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