Canine Massage
Massage and bodywork works on all levels: mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually, making a positive difference in every dog's life. Through an understanding of overall structure, balance, and movement, the entire animal is considered. Various massage techniques are utilized, including:
TuiNa: one of the five branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is a manual therapy that stimulates the body's defensive (wei) chi to promote energy movement in the meridians and the muscles. This is accomplished through range of motion, traction, massage (kneading, rolling, pressing, vibrational techniques) and acupressure.
Feldenkrais: an effective approach to enhancement of posture, balance, movement and behavior. It is especially useful in retraining neural pathways and proprioceptive self-awareness. Moshé Feldenkrais also asserted that improving movement may have a direct influence on cognitive and emotional function, especially anxiety.
Acupressure: according to TCM theory, physical pressure is applied to acupuncture points along the meridians to rebalance yin, yang and chi. These “acupoints” may or may not be in the same area of the body as the targeted symptom.
Opposition stretches and both passive and active range of motion are also utilized
What massage and bodywork can do:
increase circulation and oxygenation to the cells of the body
expedite removal of wastes & toxins
stimulate the immune system
decrease pain, soreness & stiffness
restore supple muscle tone
improve muscle function
stimulate nerve function to improve proprioception
re-train neural pathways
increase flexibility & range of motion
improve socialization skills
Conditions that can benefit from massage and bodywork include:
compensatory patterns due to structural imbalances/poor conformation
orthopedic diseases (e.g. hip dysplasia, spondylosis)
neck and back injuries
postoperative healing
sports injuries
arthritis
hindquarter weakness
aging and inactivity
behavioral issues (fear, anxiety, insecurities)
hospice care (physical, emotional and spiritual comfort through loving touch)