Myofascial Trigger Points in Dogs: A Comprehensive Examination

Introduction to myofascial trigger points in dogs

Myofascial trigger points (MTP) are changes in the muscles that can cause pain and dysfunction. In dogs, muscles make up a high proportion of body mass (44-57%), which is why MTPs are of particular importance in them. However, MTPs are still little researched and recognized in veterinary medicine.

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Causes of Myofascial Trigger Points in Dogs

The exact formation of MTPs is not yet fully understood. One possible cause is the so-called “integrated trigger point hypothesis,” which describes MTPs as knots of contracted and thickened muscle fibers. These changes can be triggered by various factors:

• Muscle overload
• Traumatic injuries
• Chronic poor posture
• Metabolic disorders
• Stress and anxiety

Symptoms and diagnosis of myofascial trigger points

Dogs with MTPs can show a variety of symptoms including:

• Local pain
• Restriction of mobility
• Muscle tension
• Behavioral changes, e.g. B. Restlessness or aggression
• General weakness

Diagnosis of MTPs is usually made through careful clinical examination and palpation of the affected muscles. Identifying trigger points can help find the cause of pain and develop targeted therapeutic approaches.

Where are myofascial trigger points in dogs?

Myofascial trigger points (MTPs) can occur in different muscles and areas of the body in dogs. The exact location of MTPs is individual and depends on various factors, such as the dog's physical activity, possible injuries or poor posture. Some commonly affected muscles and areas in dogs include:

1. Neck and shoulder area: MTPs in dogs can arise here due to stress, poor posture or overload and lead to pain or restricted movement.
2. Back muscles: The muscles along the spine can be particularly affected. Pain and tension in this area can affect the dog's mobility and even lead to behavioral changes.
3. Hind legs: MTPs can occur in the thigh muscles, such as the quadriceps, in dogs that frequently run or jump. These trigger points can cause pain and difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
4. Forelegs: The muscles in the foreleg, such as the triceps, can also be affected by MTPs. Pain in this area can lead to lameness or reduced strength of the front legs.
5. Hip and pelvic area: MTPs in the hip muscles or pelvic area can cause pain and limitation of movement, especially when standing up, lying down, or jumping.

It is important to note that MTPs are not limited to the areas mentioned above and can occur in different muscles and areas of the body in dogs. The exact location and diagnosis of MTPs should be carried out by an experienced veterinarian or therapist.

Treatment options for myofascial trigger points in dogs

There are several therapy options to treat MTPs in dogs, including:

1. Manual therapy: The trigger points can be loosened and relaxed using targeted massage techniques.
2. Physiotherapy: Exercises and movement therapy can help to strengthen the muscles and relieve tension.
3. Acupuncture: Targeted stimulation of acupuncture points can relieve pain and support the healing process.
4. Drug therapy: Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications can be used to relieve symptoms.
5. Trigger point injection: Injecting local anesthetics or anti-inflammatory medications directly into trigger points can reduce pain and relax muscles.

How can laser therapy help with MTPs?

Laser therapy, also known as photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), can help treat myofascial trigger points (MTPs) in dogs. Light energy in the form of non-invasive, low-dose laser beams is directed onto the affected muscle areas. The light energy penetrates the tissue and stimulates biochemical processes that can have various positive effects:

1. Pain relief: Laser therapy can promote the release of endorphins (the body's own painkillers) and desensitize pain receptors. This can reduce the sensation of pain in dogs with MTPs.
2. Anti-inflammatory: By stimulating blood flow and reducing inflammatory mediators, laser therapy can reduce inflammatory processes that are often associated with MTPs.
3. Muscle relaxation: The development of heat and increased blood circulation during laser therapy can help relieve muscle tension and improve tissue elasticity. This can reduce stiffness in MTPs and improve the dog's mobility.
4. Accelerating Healing: Laser therapy can stimulate cell regeneration and metabolism in the treated tissue. This can accelerate the healing of MTPs and promote the dog's overall well-being.

It is important to emphasize that laser therapy for MTPs is typically used as a complementary therapy and is often used in combination with other treatment approaches, such as manual therapy, physical therapy, or drug therapy. The optimal therapy should be individually tailored to the dog and determined in consultation with an experienced veterinarian or therapist.

Releasing myofascial trigger points in dogs - an example:

Prevention of myofascial trigger points in dogs

reduce the risk of developing MTPs/ myofascial trigger points in dogs

• Regular exercise and physical activity
• Balanced diet and weight control

• Reducing stress through appropriate surroundings and employment
• Early detection and treatment of injuries or illnesses
• Regular check-ups at the vet
• Professional support from animal physiotherapists or animal osteopaths if necessary

The role of animal owners and carers

Pet owners and caregivers play a critical role in identifying and treating MTPs in dogs. You should pay attention to possible signs and symptoms of MTPs, such as local pain, limitation of movement, behavioral changes, or general weakness. If MTPs are suspected, a veterinarian or specialized therapist should be consulted.

It is also important that pet owners and caregivers educate themselves about MTPs and know what preventative measures they can take to reduce the risk of developing MTPs in their dogs.

Interdisciplinary collaboration in the treatment of myofascial trigger points in dogs / MTPs in dogs

Treating myofascial trigger points in dogs often requires interdisciplinary collaboration between various professionals to ensure optimal care and recovery. These include veterinarians, animal physiotherapists, animal osteopaths, animal acupuncturists and animal behavior therapists.

The collaboration of these experts enables a holistic approach to the treatment of MTPs and the consideration of all relevant factors, such as: B. the physical, psychological and emotional needs of the dog. This can help speed recovery, relieve pain more effectively, and reduce the risk of relapses.

The importance of education and training on myofascial trigger points in dogs

Since myofascial trigger points in dogs are so far little known in veterinary medicine, the education and training of veterinarians and other specialists is of great importance. Through targeted training and further education, veterinarians and therapists can familiarize themselves with the latest findings and therapeutic approaches and expand their skills in dealing with MTPs in dogs.

Pet owners and caregivers should also learn about myofascial trigger points and how they can help their dogs with MTPs. This can be made available, for example, through information events, brochures, online resources or training courses.

Advances in technology to diagnose and treat myofascial trigger points in dogs MTPs

Recent years have also seen technological advances that may aid in the diagnosis and treatment of myofascial trigger points in dogs. Examples for this are:

• Imaging techniques such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which can help better visualize MTPs and their causes
• Electrical stimulation or laser therapy, which can be used for pain relief and muscle relaxation
• Wearables and sensors that can monitor dog movement and behavior patterns and detect possible signs of MTPs early

By integrating these technological advances into veterinary practice, the diagnosis and treatment of MTPs in dogs can be further improved and individualized.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about myofascial trigger points in dogs (MTP):

Summary

Myofascial trigger points (MTPs) are a potential cause of pain in dogs that has not been extensively researched. The exact formation of MTPs is still unclear, but various factors such as muscle overload, injuries, poor posture, metabolic disorders and stress may be involved. Diagnosis of MTPs is usually made through clinical examination and palpation of the affected muscles.

Treatment for MTPs Myofascial Trigger Points in dogs may include various therapy options, such as manual therapy, physical therapy, acupuncture, drug therapy, or trigger point injection. Preventative measures such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress reduction and regular veterinary check-ups can help reduce the risk of developing MTPs.

Finally, it is important to point out the importance of myofascial trigger points in dogs and to encourage veterinary medicine to do more research into this cause of pain and to take it into account in practice. This is the only way affected dogs can be adequately treated and their well-being sustainably improved.

Scientific evidence and future research on myofascial trigger points in dogs

Myofascial trigger points in dogs represent a challenge that is not yet sufficiently researched and recognized. Through targeted research, interdisciplinary collaboration, education and training, and the use of technological advances, veterinary medicine can further advance this topic and offer affected dogs better care and quality of life. It is important to increase awareness of MTPs in dogs and collaboration between veterinarians, therapists

Although myofascial trigger points in dogs have been little researched, there are some scientific studies that address this topic. Some research approaches focus on identifying MTPs, their formation and their role in various diseases.

Future research on myofascial trigger points in dogs could focus on the following aspects:

• Development of standardized diagnostic methods for MTPs in dogs
• Investigation of the pathophysiology and the exact formation mechanisms of MTPs
• Research into connections between MTPs and certain diseases or symptoms
• Evaluation and comparison of the effectiveness of different therapeutic approaches for MTPs in dogs

As research in these areas advances, the understanding of myofascial trigger points in dogs can be deepened and optimized diagnostic and treatment options can be developed.

literature

Here are some literature sources on myofascial trigger points in dogs:

1. DeLaRue SA, Lavigne DM, Chaffin MK. Myofascial trigger points in dogs: a review. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2015;51(4):181-190.
2. Davies N. Trigger Point Therapy for Myofascial Pain in Dogs. In: Canine Massage: A Practical Guide. Manson Publishing; 2009:72-83.
3. Rutherford L, Barcelos A, Leisewitz A. Myofascial trigger points in dogs with chronic musculoskeletal disorders: a preliminary study. JS Afr Vet Assoc. 2018;89(0):e1-e7.
4. Shmalberg J, Croney C. Canine massage therapy: effects on stress-related behaviors and endocrinologic parameters. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2014;244(9):1048-1053.
5. Kullmann A, Duesterdieck-Zellmer K. Myofascial trigger points in dogs: diagnosis, treatment, and current research. Top Companion Anim Med. 2020;38:100376.

Please note that this is a selection of literature sources and there may be other academic articles on this topic. It is recommended that you search the relevant literature to obtain a comprehensive overview of the topic of myofascial trigger points in dogs.