Masticatory Muscle Myositis

Masticatory Muscle Myositis (MMM) is an immune system disorder in which the dog’s immune system identifies the dog’s own muscle tissue as foreign and attacks it. The masticatory muscles are the muscles involved with chewing. MMM causes these muscles to become swollen and painful. Dogs with MMM cannot open their mouths without excruciating pain. They cannot eat, chew, or pick up their toys.

Some dogs may be predisposed genetically to immune-mediated diseases, including MMM. Suspected triggers of MMM include: bacterial and/or viral infection, vaccinations, stress, exposure to allergens, reactions to medication, and exposure to environmental toxins. Unfortunately, most of the time, the actual trigger of MMM will never be known.

Our MMM treatment program for canine myositis patients. Clients from all over the world reach out to us to find a long-term solution for their dogs suffering from myositis. We treat many myositis cases with patients in various disease stages, some of them in severe pain and unable to eat. Steroids provide temporary relief and are the first choice treatment of veterinary surgeons. Our treatment program is an effective alternative to the conventional long-term steroid treatment. It can be used alongside the initial steroid treatment and can achieve complete healing from the disease over time.

We also strongly believe that commercial dog food plays a role in the development of the disease. Commercial dog food has a lack of nutrients necessary for a healthy and well functioning body. Additionally, substances in commercial dog foods like gluten have the ability to disrupt the absorption process in the intestines leading to local inflammation, triggering an immune response. This is why a raw, fresh food diet is an essential part of our treatment program.

Our treatment approach The McDowells Herbal approach is to try and normalise the immune reaction overall. Most importantly, we need to optimise digestion and liver function. Herbs like Chamomile and Dandelion are very useful for this. We also need to normalise and optimise the metabolism and help the elimination of toxins from the body. The herbs in our Conditioning Mix are the ideal combination to achieve this. Other herbs in the mix balance and support the immune system. The Bachflowers in the mix address the emotional side of the disease by improving the energy flow, balancing emotions, creating harmony and creating a feeling of safety. Additionally to the Conditioning Mix we work with strong, natural anti-oxidants, the Maritime Pine Bark Extract. Maritime Pine Bark is a very special herb that protects the body from harmful free radicals. This is especially important when inflammation is present in the body. Maritime Pine Bark positively influences many organ systems. It also has a balancing and strengthening effect on the immune system and supports the vascular system. Liquorice and Elecampane Extract provides a natural cortisone type of action along with essential tissue repair. These herbal formulas combined with an excellent raw food diet will help your dog overcome myositis and to live a normal, happy life.”