WHAT IS EQUINE MASSAGE THERAPY?
The basics of massage therapy for horses originated from the age old notion that physical touch can heal. Along with healing traumatized muscles it also can soothe, calm and relax our equine friends. If you take the time to observe a horse or any other animal for that matter in his natural setting you will see that they are encouraged by their social instincts to partake in manual grooming and other intimate contacts. The equine massage therapist uses hands and body to manipulate soft tissue for the prevention and treatment of muscle injuries, thereby maintaining free motion and encouraging optimum performance in horses.
Pre/Post Competition
• Warms up, relaxes and loosens tension in muscles.
• Eases nerves and stress through relaxation.
• Increases stride length, range of motion and flexibility.
• Increases oxygen flow to the muscles, thereby enhancing metabolism and shortening recuperation time.
Injury Rehabilitation
• Increases the flow of nutrients to the muscles, thereby promoting the healing process.
• Reduces inflammation and swelling in joints.
• Improves blood and lymph circulation throughout the body.
• Provides comfort to muscle injuries.
• Promotes endorphin release, which in turn reduces pain.
Maintenance
• Breaks down scar tissue and muscle restrictions.
• Enhances muscle tone.
• Boosts energy and stamina.
• Maintains physical condition and encourages balance.
• Prevents injuries to muscles and tendons.
Why Do Horses Need Equine Massage Therapy?
While all horses would benefit from a little extra brushing and petting, some horses need the touch and manipulation of muscles and soft tissue to stimulate healing, relaxation and rejuvenation.
If your horse has struggled with chronic pain, illness or is simply getting old and suffering from the aches and pains of age, we can massage his or her muscles in such a way as to increase flexibility, reduce swelling, decrease pain and to stimulate your horse’s body’s natural ability to heal itself. Many older horses that could no longer perform jumps, run in races, pull weight, or handle riders have found their abilities restored because of equine massage.
This page was last updated: July 8, 2010
5 Things That Massage Has a Direct Effect On
1. Circulation: Massage’s #1 influence is upon the circulatory system. e.g.: the increase of circulation for any injury will aid in the healing process.
2. Swelling: massage can dramatically reduce swelling.
3. Tension: by gently stretching the muscle fibres by massage, tension can be reduced.
4. Atrophy: several massage techniques can help damaged areas that have lost tone.
5. Scar Tissue: scar tissue can be reduced allowing far greater range of motion to the muscles and joints.
