Focused Care Clinics

A Whole-Dog, Whole-Care Approach

At East Midlands Clinical Canine Massage & Rehabilitation Therapies, I recognise that optimal outcomes come from treating the whole dog, not just the symptoms. Musculoskeletal pain, reduced mobility, and performance issues are rarely caused by a single factor. They are influenced by physical function, lifestyle, environment, nutrition, and emotional wellbeing. Addressing all of these elements is essential to achieve the best possible clinical outcome, reducing compensatory patterns, and support long-term mobility and quality of life.

For this reason, my work is guided by the biopsychosocial model of care. This approach considers how the body, behaviour, and environment interact, ensuring each dog receives truly individualised, evidence-informed support.

To ensure focused, structured care, I offer dedicated clinics designed to meet dogs’ needs at different life stages and presentations:

Canine Musculoskeletal Pain Clinic – for dogs experiencing musculoskeletal pain, stiffness, reduced performance, or compensatory movement
Canine Puppy Wellness & Exercise Clinic – supporting healthy development, safe exercise, and injury prevention
Canine Nutritional Advice & Weight Management Clinic – addressing diet, body condition, and joint health

Is your Dog Experiencing Pain?

Dogs experiencing pain but may struggle to communicate it effectively. Being aware of your dog's behaviour and body language is essential for recognizing signs of discomfort.

Here are some common indicators that your dog may be in pain:

1. Vocalisations: Dogs might whine, whimper, growl, or bark more than usual when they are in pain. Increased vocalizations can be a clear sign that something is wrong.

2. Changes in Behaviour: Dogs in pain might become more withdrawn or aggressive. They may avoid interaction with their owners or other pets, or they might desire more attention and seeking comfort.

3. Altered Mobility: Limping, difficulty getting up or lying down, or a reluctance to exercise can be indicators of pain. Watch for changes in how they move or a hesitation to jump or play.

4. Changes in Eating or Drinking Habits: A sudden loss of appetite or decreased water intake can signify illness or pain. Dogs may also drool excessively if they're distressed.

5. Body Language: Tail position, ear position, and facial expressions can provide cues. A lowered tail, pinned ears, or a furrowed brow all might indicate discomfort or distress.

6. Grooming Changes: Some dogs may lick or chew at specific areas of their body that are painful. This behaviour, known as self-soothing, can lead to skin issues.

MSK Pain Clinic

Musculoskeletal Pain Clinic

At East Midlands Clinical Canine Massage & Therapies, I recognise how pain in dogs can often go unnoticed that is why I provide a clinical yet compassionate approach to pain management, working in close collaboration with your Vet, Clinical Veterinary Behaviourists, and other members of your dog’s care team. Every dog receives a thorough pain assessment and a tailored therapy plan designed to meet their individual needs, optimise comfort, and enhance quality of life.

Your Dogs MSK Pain Assessment

As a CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) Pain Practitioner, I can provide comprehensive musculoskeletal pain assessments for dogs, including:

Full musculoskeletal and gait evaluation
- Joint and soft tissue palpation
- Posture and movement observation (rest and active)
- Functional mobility assessment
Owner-completed pain assessment tools
- Validated clinical measurement instruments (CMIs)
- Behavioural and activity questionnaires
Personalised recommendations on:
- Environmental modifications
- Weight management (including BCS and physical measurements)
- Activity adjustments and tailored exercise programmes
- Nutritional and lifestyle guidance
Advice on osteoarthritis (OA) and chronic pain management
Ongoing support and progress reviews
Comprehensive reports shared with your veterinary surgeon and behaviourist, if applicable.

Effective pain management requires a multimodal, collaborative approach. Early intervention can greatly enhance your dog’s comfort, mobility, and quality of life.

Why Assess Pain

There is no functional purpose to maladaptive (chronic) pain. Pain limits mobility, cognitive ability and often leads to behavioural issues. A dog that experiences pain will learn abnormal gait, posture, and behavioural patterns which in turn can, and in all the cases I have seen will, negatively affect recovery and quality of life.

Behavioural changes are often key indicators that your dog is in pain. Associations between certain forms of common behaviour problems in dogs such as aggressive behaviour and noise sensitivities. are now more recently being accepted as indicators of pain-related behaviours Mills et al., (2020).

Delivering Measurable Results in Musculoskeletal Pain Management

Since launching Veterinary Musculoskeletal Pain Clinic Service, I have had promising results and feedback, I am excited to share these achievements:

Over the course of MSK Pain Clinics, I have assisted 53 canine patients. Notably, all 53 patients were referred back to their veterinarians for further investigations, and 27 of them underwent a pain trial combined with holistic treatments such as massage, acupuncture and physiotherapy. Among the 27 dogs that participated in a pain medication trial combined with at least one holistic therapy, all 27 experienced a reduction in pain, as indicated by the pain assessment tools, whilst also showing improvements in mobility. That’s an impressive 100%. I also helped address a range of behavioural issues in 33 patients, reflecting my commitment to care.

So what does this mean?

A multimodal approach to treating chronic canine musculoskeletal pain, directed by Veterinary intervention and management, is essential for achieving optimal outcomes when treating chronic pain in dogs. Chandley E (2024) & Ihrke (2023).

By combining pain medications with holistic therapies such as acupuncture, physical therapy, massage, hydrotherapy, you can effectively help alleviate pain and enhance your dog's quality of life. Collaborating with a veterinarian to tailor a treatment plan specific to your dog's needs will ensure they receive the best care possible, allowing them to enjoy a happier and more comfortable life.