Neuromyofascial Release is a muscle release technique, not a chiropractic technique. It is an effective way to relieve muscle pain and improve movement.

Neuromyofascial Release is one of the primary therapies we use in our clinic and is an alternative to the traditional form of chiropractic spinal manipulation. Instead of using hands to do a manual adjustment, an instrument is used to deliver several rapid-fire pulses directed at specific sites on the body. This technique addresses neurological subluxations and muscular dysfunctions. It relies on the response of the dog for feedback and is safe and comfortable for them. The soft ‘click’ of the tool may startle noise sensitive dogs. But most dogs become quickly conditioned to the sound.

Muscular dysfunction will cause decreased performance. The spine connects the entire body and has many muscles attached to it. Dysfunctional muscles or trauma to areas connected to the spine can disrupt the neural feedback system from the spine to the brain. Muscular strain will cause the dog to compensate and alter his or her gait. This compensation will extend into the spine but an adjustment will return the dog to normal function.

How Neuromyofascial Release works

When a dog has an area of dysfunction or subluxation along the spine, they will demonstrate an involuntary reflex (like a muscle spasm) when motion is administered to the corresponding vertebrae. The recurrent meningeal nerve is responsible for this reflex. The adjusting tool delivers a fast, short, gentle motion to the joint segment. The technique restores proper communication between the spinal segment and the brain, releases soft tissues and allows the body to “re-set” the joint. The reflex or muscle spasms will decrease or disappear when the the area of dysfunction is released.

What does it feel like?

It feels like a light tapping sensation to the treated area. In most cases the treatment is painless and after the adjustment many patients feel relief and improved mobility.

What conditions does it treat?

Neuromyofascial is effective for a wide range of conditions such as:
   •   lameness
   •   arthritis
   •   hip dysplasia
   •   knee injuries
   •   hind end weakness
   •   muscle spasms
   •   Performance issues
   •   Agility Dysfunction

At our clinic the muscles are warmed up before Neuromysofascial Release. This is to prepare them for the adjustment.