Veterinarian Karlsruhe - Dog diseases - Myofascial trigger points in dogs. Myofascial trigger points MTP are changes in the muscles that can cause pain and dysfunction. However, MTPs are still little researched and recognized in veterinary medicine. The exact formation of MTPs is not yet fully understood. These changes can be triggered by various factors:. 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. 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:. 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. 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:.
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.
