It’s that time of year again - cold and damp - when our dogs with
conditions such as arthritis, hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia seem to suffer a
bit more.
I remember when our dog Asha was diagnosed with elbow dysplasia at 9
months old and the word arthritis was mentioned I thought it was the end of the
world. I imagined no more stick chasing,
years of expensive treatment, mobility issues and a reduced quality of life. I have learnt a lot since then.
Dogs affected by these conditions are in a similar situation
to humans whereby changes in the weather, sleeping on hard surfaces and
exercise which was previously ok can bring on varying degrees of pain and
mobility problems. They can affect dogs
of any size or breed although some are certainly more prone than others, and
discomfort ranges from extreme pain to minor discomfort.
Massage makes sense when keeping a dogs tissue as healthy as
possible in order to keep the dog moving.
Whilst massage certainly cannot cure this, it can help relieve the
secondary condition of muscle tightness and pain. From a muscular perspective, the muscles
tighten around the area of discomfort to protect it, but over time excessive or
prolonged tightening can lead to these muscles becoming ischemic (blood flow is
impeded) and trigger points (knots) developing.
Because the blood flow can’t get there, waste (such as lactic acid)
builds up and the muscles themselves start to hurt.
And let us not forget about the rest of the body when one or
more parts aren’t functioning optimally…other parts and other muscles become
strained from overwork and compensating to protect the painful area, allowing
the dog to keep moving….and the cycle starts again!
Massage therapy stimulates the circulation and gradually
releases the muscle tension to increase the blood flow. Increasing the blood flow to the tissues helps
reduce soreness and congestion and promotes joint health. Improved blood flow around the joint improves
flexibility and reduces pain.
I have a number of clients with dysplasia or arthritis in
some shape or form and comments following massage have included:
“…she even ran a bit which she hasn’t in ages…”, “…she
voluntarily jumped up on the bed…”, “…she seemed so much more flexible and her
mood seemed brighter.”, “Going down the stairs he is so much better – not
looking so stiff…”, “…he jumped into the back of the car so much easier after
the massage than he did before.”
And on that note, I’m off to give Asha her weekly session ;)
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