A muscle chart is shown below  and each muscle's function is listed below the muscle chart

                    The Benefits of Massage

1.                Improves circulation and as a result, promotes more rapid healing of injuries

2.                Enhances muscle tone and increases range of motion

3.                Eases muscle spasms

4.                Reduces inflammation and swelling in the joints so that pain is relieved.  Massage in most cases increases the production of synovial fluid in the joint

5.                Stimulates circulation in the lymphatic system and hastens the elimination of waste products and other toxins

6.                Lengthens connective tissue and so breaks down/prevents the formation of adhesions and reduces the danger of fibrosis

7.                Generally improves the disposition of the animal.

 The Basics of Sports Massage 

1.                            Maintains the entire body in better physical condition

2.                            Aids in preventing injuries and loss of mobility

3.                            Boosts athletic performance and endurance

4.                            Restore mobility to injured muscle tissue

5.                            Extends both the good health and the overall life of the animal’s athletic career.      

        ( - muscle functions listed below evaluation form-)

1.    Rectus capitus lateralis - flexes head and inclines the head to the side

 2.    Splenius - flexes the neck

 3.    Multifidus cervicus - flexes neck, rotates head to the opposite side (deep layer)

 4.    Brachiocephalicus - flexes neck, moves shoulder forward

 5.    Supraspinatus - extends shoulder joint (deep layer under the deltoid)

 6.    Trapezius/rhomboids - elevate the shoulder, draw scapula upward, forward and backward

 7.    Deltoid - extends shoulder joint

 8.    Infraspinatus - rotates arm outward ( deep layer under the tricep)

 9.    Tricep - flexes shoulder joint

10.    Bicep - extends forelimb

11.    Serratus thoracis - when leg is planted, it draws the trunk to proper level

12.    Pectoral - draws foreleg backwards

13.    Extensor carpi radialis - bends and flexes foreleg

14.    Latissiums dorsi - lateral flexion

15.    Longissimus dorsi - extends back and lateral flexion

16.    Intercostal - supports rib cage and aids in respiration

17.    Oblique - draws hind leg under body

18.    Rectus abdominus - supports the back

19.    Gluteus - forward impulsion and hind end action

20.    Semimembranosus - extends the hock (hamstring)

21.    Semitendinosus - extends hip and hock

22.   Bicep femoris - extends hind limb, hip, hock, and flexes stifle

23.    Tensor fascia latae - extends stifle and flexes hip

24.    Fascia latae - extends stifle and flexes hip

25.    Long digital extensor - bends and flexes hind leg