*Prerequisite workshops: 
Trust and Relationship-Building with Dogs
Canine Massage Fundamentals

Myofascial trigger point therapy is one of the most effective soft tissue treatments for reducing and eliminating musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction in both humans and dogs. Many dogs that present with on-and-off lameness along with chronic dysfunction or limited mobility very often suffer from myofascial trigger points. Trigger points initiate a downward spiral that begins with limited range of motion and inhibited muscle contractibility; they are often responsible for a multitude of issues, including ischemia in the tissues, referred pain patterns, nerve impingement, and limited joint movement which adds to degenerative changes within the joints.

Myofascial trigger point therapy is a powerful and indispensable tool that should be part of every canine massage therapist and rehab practitioner’s tool box. It is a time efficient way to assess tissue health, and it effectively decreases pain, increases range of motion, and assists in tissue healing which allows ongoing strengthening and rehabilitation.