1 | Massage therapy

Benefits of massage therapy:

- Lessening of pain and pain response (limited movement, limited emotional/physical release, anxiety, fear or aggression)

- Healing of physical injury by breakdown of scar tissue and lessening of contracture

- Relaxation and calming

- Release of stress

- Increased blood flow to vital organs

- Stimulation of central nervous system

- Stimulation of endocrine system

- Increased metabolism

- Increased peristaltic activity (intestinal activity)

- Release of histamine (an organic nitrogen compound involved in local immune responses as well as regulating physiological function in the gut and acting as a neurotransmitter)

2 | Therapeutic massage with cold laser therapy

Cold laser therapy is a treatment that uses a low-powered laser, that does not produce heat, to treat conditions and injuries in dogs. It is also used on other domestic pets, horses and humans.

Treatable ailments include:

• Joint injuries
• Ligament or tendon injuries
• Bone fractures
• Muscle sprains or strains
• Skin lesions or abrasions
• Hematoma (swelling of blood in body tissue)
• Post-trauma wounds
• Post-surgical wounds
• Arthritis
• Musculoskeletal diseases
• Nerve injury

The beam of the laser consists of wavelengths with photons that penetrate into the tissue. The photons are absorbed by cells that are not properly functioning due to injury or disease. The photons help to initiate cellular processes by increasing the productivity of ATP, the energy source for cells. This increases overall cellular function, allowing for more rapid absorption of nutrients, elimination of wastes and reproduction of new cells. The reproduction of healthy cells and efficiency of cellular function aids to:

• Alleviate chronic or acute pain
• Reduce inflammation of soft tissue
• Reduce edema (fluid trapped in body tissue)
• Activate immune cells
• Reduce bacteria in region of treatment
• Increase blood flow to region of treatment
• Speed healing and recovery

The effects of alleviating pain and reducing inflammation allow the dog to regain limited mobility and activity earlier in the recovery process. The laser also directly affects joint fluid

and cartilage. This can benefit dogs suffering from arthritis by increasing the range of motion in joints. Increased range of motion allows a dog with arthritis to engage in more moderate and comfortable exercise.

3 | Physical Therapy & pain evaluation

Physical therapy for dogs offers numerous benefits that can significantly improve their quality of life. Here are some key advantages:

1. Pain Relief: Physical therapy can help alleviate both acute and chronic pain through techniques like massage, heat therapy, and specific exercises.
2. Improved Mobility: It enhances joint flexibility and muscle strength, which is particularly beneficial for dogs with arthritis or those recovering from surgery.
3. Faster Recovery: Dogs recovering from injuries or surgeries can heal more quickly with the help of physical therapy, as it promotes better blood circulation and reduces inflammation.
4. Weight Management: Regular physical activity helps in maintaining a healthy weight, which is crucial for overall health and reducing the strain on joints.
5. Enhanced Quality of Life: By reducing pain and improving mobility, physical therapy helps dogs enjoy a more active and fulfilling life.
6. Stress Reduction: Techniques like massage can also help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs, contributing to their overall well-being.

Silent pain in dogs refers to a condition in which a dog is experiencing pain but does not show any obvious outward signs of discomfort or distress. 

Evaluating pain in dogs is important to ensure their well-being and quality of life. It can help identify underlying issues and provide appropriate treatment to alleviate pain and discomfort. Catching misalignments early is key for a quick recovery!