Myositis

Myositis is an inflammation of the muscle. The inflammation can originate from trauma, bacteria, and viruses or even through the administration of irritating substances through injections. The inflammatory response within muscle tissue is a series of sequenced events that occurs after any insult to the muscle. The injured muscle tissues release histamine, serotonin, and kinins. All of these result in a vasodilatation (dilated blood vessels) and an increased permeability within the walls of the blood vessels. The tissue swells and this is referred to as edema. Pain is also brought forth within the area due to the presence of toxic substances on the sensory nerve endings.

Initially, cold therapy is used to cause vasoconstriction and a reduction in the swelling. However, within 24 hours, infrared heat therapy is uniquely beneficial. Infrared heat therapy will have the following beneficial effects upon the inflamed muscle tissue:

• increase in circulation that will allow for more nutrients to be present to the healing muscle cells and an increased capacity to carry away the toxic byproducts of inflammation.
• edema will be reduced in most cases because of the increased blood flow allowing drainage to the area.
• pain will be reduced by the mechanisms mentioned and this will expedite a break in the inflammatory response.

If the myositis is localized to a small area, the application of a single Thermotex™ Infrared Therapy Systems Heating pad may be all the therapy required. A single pad can be removed from the blanket and placed directly over the insulting area for a period of at least 30 minutes.

Most cases of myositis, especially when they are bacterial or viral in nature, are more generalized and treatment of the entire animal is beneficial. Follow all of the steps in preparing the patient for treatment as outlined above. Be patient and kind to the animal. Remember they are sick and in pain. Place the blanket on the animal and set on the high setting for approximately five minutes. Switch the setting to low and continue treatment for at least another 30 minutes to one hour. Multiple treatments throughout the day are ideal with three or four being optimum.