The many benefits of dog massage therapy

The benefits of dog massage therapy are as numerous as the benefits of human massage therapy. Massage in both cases is about a holistic approach to body and mind wellness. Read more to learn how massage could help your very important pooch feel their very best.

General physical and mental benefits

Hip & Elbow Dysplasia

Hip and elbow dysplasia are genetic conditions where the bones of the joint are malformed. This malformation causes stability issues and damage to the surrounding cartilage over time. Dysplasia affects a wide number of breeds including: Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepards, Corgis, Bulldogs, Pugs, Great Danes, and Bernese Mountain Dogs. Many dogs affected by joint dysplasia will also develop osteoarthritis later in life. Because dysplasia is a bone deformation, massage cannot fix the issue, but it can be a great tool to manage pain and retain (or regain) mobility.

In hip and elbow dysplasia, muscles around the joint are typically held tensely to protect the area. As the pain of the dysplasia and the over-activated muscles gets worse, the joint's use goes down. This reinforces a growing stiffness in the joint. Massage can relieve the aches and pains of that extended muscle tension, and improve blood circulation in the area. Blood circulation brings fresh fluids with needed nutrients and oxygen to replenish the soft tissues. Bringing down the overall pain and stiffness typically encourages the dog to return to physical activity, and greatly improves their morale. The ability to stay mobile keeps the dog’s spirit up and helps maintain circulation and joint health.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a joint condition that causes stiff, swollen, painful joints that restrict movement and strength. Some medical conditions can lead to arthritis over time, such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, previously broken joints, or simply having the wrong genes. Many breeds are especially prone to developing arthritis, including: Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, Newfoundlands, Malamutes, Standard Poodles, Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, Pugs, Retrievers, Greyhounds, and Boxers. There are several kinds of arthritis, but any breed can ultimately suffer from arthritis caused by old age.

Massage is never done directly on the joints, but instead on the muscles and tendons surrounding them. Research shows that massage can reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, both of which help relieve joint pain. By incorporating massage into their care routine, dogs with arthritis can experience reduced pain and increased joint flexibility. These positive changes also improve their morale and quality of life.

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation is a condition where the kneecap (a.k.a. the patella) doesn’t track over the knee joint as it should. According to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, patellar luxation is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs. This condition affects mostly small dogs, especially breeds such as Boston and Yorkshire terriers, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and miniature Poodles. However, rates in large-breed dogs have been on the rise over the past ten years. Breeds at increasing risk include Chinese Shar Pei, Flat-Coated Retrievers, Akitas, and Great Pyrenees.

Massage can greatly alleviate the symptoms and discomfort associated with patellar luxation by promoting relaxation, improving circulation, and enhancing muscular flexibility. Moreover, massage aids in strengthening the surrounding muscles which add stability and support to the knee joint. By incorporating regular massage sessions into a treatment plan, dogs suffering from patellar luxation can experience increased mobility, reduced pain, and an overall improvement in their quality of life.

Spinal Disc Injuries (and IVDD)

Ruptured discs, slipped discs, and IVDD (intervertebral disc disorder) are all conditions affecting the disc or “cushion” between the vertebrae. When the disc becomes displaced, broken, or calcified, the lubricating fluid that enables painless spinal movement instead puts pressure on the spinal nerves. This pressure causes pain, numbness and tingling, muscle weakness, and in the worst cases difficulty with mobility or complete lack of sensation and control of lower limbs. IVDD is mostly known as a common Dachshund disorder but can affect other breeds as well. Trauma to the spine can cause a rupture or slipped disc in any dog.

Dogs experiencing spinal disc issues can also experience weakened and spasming spinal muscles. Massage can help calm spasms, release tension, and bring fresh fluids to the area with increased circulation. The gentle attention can also trigger the release of endorphins and serotonin for improved mental states.

Overactive Nervous System/Trouble Relaxing

Just as massages calm our minds and bodies, they also have the power to relieve stress and anxiety in nervous dogs. Through gentle techniques, massage promotes relaxation by stimulating the release of endorphins and encouraging the central nervous system to switch from the Sympathetic system (fight-or-flight) to the Parasympathetic system (rest-and-digest). Dogs (and people) who spend the majority of their time anxious and stressed can find it very difficult to switch systems and relax on their own. The rhythmic strokes and kneading actions performed during a massage can also help to reduce muscle tension and improve circulation. These changes in the body can cue the mind to switch to a relaxed state of being and bring peace to your pooch.

Injury Recovery

Massage can be incredibly beneficial for dogs healing from an injury. Like us, dogs can experience muscle tension, soreness, and stiffness after an injury. Massage can help relieve these symptoms by promoting relaxation, increasing circulation, and reducing inflammation. In addition, massage can improve the dog's overall range of motion and flexibility, which can aid in the healing process.

If an injury was long-lasting or incapacitating, a dog will limit how much range of motion was possible before the injury, for fear of experiencing more pain. They learn that motions or stretches are painful while injured, and won’t return to previous capabilities after healed. Passive-repetitive stretching can show the dog that they are healed and those actions are “safe” again.

Localized Fear of Touch

Many dogs that are very comfortable being petted still have anxiety about being handled in more sensitive areas like lower/inner legs and paws. Some dogs don’t even like being touched anywhere other than their backs. A regular massage session can be a really enjoyable method of introducing touch to their anxiety areas in a calm, safe space. By its very nature, there is no force or restraint used during a massage, so it is a perfect chance for your dog to experience what they feel are fearful touches, in a gradual way.

Help your very important pooch feel better by booking a massage appointment today!