Vet Physio
Abu Dhabi
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Service

Massage & Myofascial Release

Hands-on soft tissue techniques used to reduce muscular tension, improve mobility and encourage relaxation.

Location
On-site (at your stable or home)

Equine & Canine Sports Massage and Soft Tissue Therapy

Massage and myofascial release form an important part of Veterinary Physiotherapy and are used to reduce muscular tension, improve mobility and support overall comfort and wellbeing.

Techniques are tailored to the individual horse or dog following clinical assessment findings, allowing areas of tension, restriction or compensation to be targeted effectively.

Massage

A wide range of massage and soft tissue techniques may be utilised depending on the individual needs of the patient.

Massage therapy can help to:

  • Reduce muscular tension and soft tissue restrictions

  • Improve circulation and tissue oxygenation

  • Encourage muscular relaxation

  • Improve muscle extensibility and flexibility

  • Enhance muscle tone and tissue quality

  • Support recovery following exercise or injury

  • Reduce discomfort associated with compensatory movement patterns

Massage techniques may also help improve soft tissue mobility and reduce fibrous adhesions, supporting improved movement quality and comfort.

Myofascial Release

Myofascial release techniques are used to address restrictions within the fascia — the connective tissue network surrounding muscles and other structures throughout the body.

Fascial tension and restriction can contribute to stiffness, reduced performance, discomfort and altered movement patterns. Through gentle sustained pressure and release techniques, myofascial release aims to:

  • Improve tissue mobility and elasticity

  • Reduce fascial tension and restriction

  • Improve posture and movement quality

  • Support normal biomechanical function

  • Enhance comfort and relaxation

Acupoint & Relaxation Techniques

Gentle pressure and touch over specific acupoints and soft tissue regions may also be incorporated within sessions to encourage relaxation and reduce areas of tension or sensitivity.

These techniques are often particularly beneficial for tense, sensitive or anxious animals and may help encourage parasympathetic relaxation responses during treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is massage and myofascial release?

Massage and myofascial release are hands-on techniques used to help reduce muscle tension, improve soft tissue mobility, increase circulation, and promote relaxation. They can be beneficial for both active and companion animals and may be used as part of a wider treatment or maintenance programme.

What conditions can massage and myofascial release help with?

These techniques may be beneficial for animals experiencing muscular tension, stiffness, compensatory movement patterns, reduced flexibility, post-exercise soreness, or those recovering from injury. They can also be used as part of a preventative maintenance programme.

How long does a massage and myofascial release session take?

Treatment times vary depending on the animal and the areas being addressed. Massage and soft tissue techniques are typically incorporated into the 60-90 minute treatment session.

How many sessions will my animal need?

The number of sessions required depends on the individual animal, their condition, and treatment goals. Some animals benefit from occasional maintenance treatments, while others may require a series of sessions as part of a rehabilitation programme. Your therapist will discuss the recommended frequency of treatment based on each animal.

What are the signs my animal may benefit from treatment?

Signs may include stiffness, reduced performance, reluctance to work, muscle tension, changes in posture, difficulty with certain movements, or general discomfort. A clinical assessment can help determine whether treatment may be beneficial.