Understanding Myofascial Pain as a Primary Driver of Lameness in Animals: Integrating Biomechanics, Neurophysiology, and Fascial Research

Musculoskeletal pain and lameness represent major causes of performance loss and welfare concerns in horses and dogs. A growing body of evidence suggests that myofascial trigger points (MTrPs)—hyperirritable foci within muscle or fascia—play an underrecognized yet central role in chronic pain and locomotor asymmetries. Despite increasing interest in fascial science and neuromuscular function, the integration of biomechanical and neurophysiological evidence remains limited in veterinary research. Current understanding of the pathophysiology, diagnostic features, and treatment response of MTrPs in animals lags behind that of human medicine, where such pain syndromes are widely acknowledged. The need to close this gap is pressing, as undiagnosed or misinterpreted myofascial pain may contribute significantly to persistent lameness and suboptimal performance in equine and canine patients.Recent studies have begun to map the fascial tissue’s role in force transmission and sensory modulation, revealing complex interplays between muscle tone regulation, nociceptive input, and connective tissue adaptation. Clinical and ultrasonographic investigations in horses and dogs have identified structural and electrical markers resembling human MTrPs, though standardization of diagnostic criteria and validation of therapeutic protocols remain elusive. Moreover, the contribution of altered motor control, sympathetic activity, and fascial stiffness to the initiation and perpetuation of trigger points is poorly defined. Advanced imaging, electromyographic mapping, and motion analysis offer new opportunities to explore these phenomena from both mechanical and neurophysiological perspectives.This Research Topic aims to establish an interdisciplinary framework for studying myofascial pain as a primary cause of lameness in horses and dogs. It seeks to integrate biomechanical, neurophysiological, and fascial research to clarify the mechanisms that underlie myofascial trigger point formation, pain signaling, and locomotor dysfunction. The goal is to encourage studies that refine diagnostic approaches, evaluate therapeutic interventions, and compare species-specific manifestations to advance translational understanding. By bridging fascial science, clinical pain assessment, and motor control research, the Topic will foster collaborations linking veterinary anesthesiology, physiotherapy, and biomechanics.To gather further insights into the biomechanical and neurophysiological foundations of myofascial pain in animal lameness, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:Identification and characterization of myofascial trigger points in horses and dogsNeurophysiological pathways linking fascia, muscle, and pain perceptionBiomechanical modeling of fascial tension and locomotor dysfunctionDiagnostic and imaging techniques for myofascial pain assessmentComparative studies of myofascial syndromes across speciesTherapeutic and rehabilitation strategies targeting trigger pointsIntegration of pain management, anesthesiology, and manual therapy in veterinary practiceArticle types: Original Research, Review, Mini Review, Methods, Hypothesis and Theory, Perspective, and Case Report. Topic editors: Karine Portier, Maira Rezende Formenton Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/81356/understanding-myofascial-pain-as-a-primary-driver-of-lameness-in-animals-integrating-biomechanics-neurophysiology-and-fascial-research