How to Massage a Dog With a Degenerative Lumbar

A degenerative lumbar can occur anywhere along the spinal column, nerve roots, nerves and discs associated with the spine. It can be very painful and debilitating to a dog, and prompt diagnosis can aid in pain relief and give your dog the best chance of leading a comfortable and productive life. Massage can positively influence your dog's outlook and leads to a release of stress. Massage also calms the mind and improves balance. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best treatment plan for your dog.

  1. Stimulating Circulation

    • Increasing circulation to your dog's lumbosacral area can speed up the post-surgical healing process, and provide comfort as well as pain relief. Place one hand over the other and apply light circular pressure along the spine and down the legs while your dog is at rest. Waiting until your dog is already relaxed will allow the muscles to benefit the most and your dog will enjoy it. If your dog seems uncomfortable around the center of his discomfort, avoid the immediate area and focus on the rest of the spinal column and legs.

    Focused Massage

    • Oftentimes during lumbosacral therapy, a dog's exercise is restricted to leash walking to minimize movement while anti-inflammatories are administered and surgical options are explored or performed. Focusing on the area of pain can diffuse heat and pain and relax the muscles around the area, allowing more comfortable mobility for your dog. Place one hand over the other and gently rub in a circular motion near the afflicted area. If your dog seems uncomfortable, lessen the pressure of your hands and move them slightly farther away from the center of pain. Keep focused massage sessions brief; a few minutes will suffice.

    Acupressure Points

    • Acupressure focuses on points of contact that can affect the balance of energy in your dog. To address back and lumbar pain, several pressure points can bring relief and comfort to your dog. Apply light pressure to a front paw on the outside of the paw bone above where it joins the outside toe, and rub softly in a circular motion. To address back pain and muscle loss in the legs due to inactivity, apply light pressure in the depression just above the innermost corner of the eye.

    Root of the Tail

    • Applying a circular massage to the root of the tail adjusts your dog's energy level and is also known as the first chakra in healing for dogs. It improves stability in your dog and targets the spinal column. Apply light pressure with your fingers where your dog's back meets his tail. Rub in a circular motion to release muscle tension. You may do the root massage several times daily as long as your dog seems comfortable.