WHAT'S EQUINE MASSAGE?
Equine Massage is the manipulation of soft tissue which includes skin, fascia, muscles, tendons, nerves, joint capsules and ligaments of the horse. The manipulation of the hand strokes is the most critical component. It is responsible for breaking up scar tissue, lactic acid, improves circulation and moves vital fluids. The end result is often pain reduction, correction and restoration of muscle functionality, a happier and healthier horse. Owners and trainers generally see results almost immediately.
Our equine companions experience the same or similar type of muscle tension in neck, shoulders and back. The same massage philosophy applies to the horse as well but with some altered techniques. All animals instinctively groom and apply the healing qualities of massage through licking and rubbing. It helps relieve pain, provides comfort and relaxation. Equine massage is good for all horses whether they are athletes competing in local, state, national or international events, weekend trail riding horse or the senior equine that could use a little extra tender loving care to ease the discomforts of aging.
Massage is one of the oldest enhancing healing modalities used today. It continues to grow because it works without the aid of modern day technology or medications.
WHO'S A CANDIDATE FOR AN EQUINE MASSAGE?
All horses are candidates for a massage whether they are a high performance horse, used for fun and pleasure for trail riding or a senior equine. They all experience muscle tension. The key here is that the stress is accumulative!
For the high performance horse the sheer nature of equine events and repetitive practice sessions makes your horse vulnerable to injury. Damage done from tight muscles impairs your horse’s lifestyle, performance and attitude. Repetitive practice sessions and some training methods cause muscles to get tight which can impede your horse’s range of motion and flexibility. Unless the tight muscle has a chance to relax and restore itself, the muscle will just get tighter and tighter. It is not noticed until the owner or trainer detects something isn’t right. Often time we hear comments like “He just doesn’t seem right. He appears off! or She’s just not herself!” It is extremely difficult for your animal to concentrate and/or perform when they are in pain or uncomfortable.
The horse that doesn’t have a chance to exercise on a regular basis or have freedom of movement at their will is also vulnerable to a decrease in muscle functionality. Horses were born to move. Their bodies work better when they are moving. Unfortunately, most horses live in condo style environment where their freedom to move about is limited.
Massage works wonders not only physically in correcting and restoring muscle functionality but also enhances the emotional and mental well being of your horse. During the massage session, the body releases endorphins to reduce pain but also makes them feel good and improves attitude. Senior equines benefit just as much as the high performance horse or backyard trail riding horse. Senior horses are often riddled with arthritis. Anyone who has arthritis knows how uncomfortable and painful it can be. A gentle touch massage can easy the discomforts from this crippling condition and provide your horse with comfort.
John Hayes, the 1994 East Coast Cutting Champion, has won six Bronze Reining Trophies. He is a highly skilled competitor and trainer with a focus on Western riding disciplines who owns several Reining and Cutting Champions. (Below is a picture of Mary riding Grand Prize, one of John’s top Reining horses.) John knows his horses must remain in peak condition at all times and uses a weekly massage for preventive care and maintenance. When you ask him why he uses massage, John states, “It works… plain and simple!”
DOES MY HORSE NEED A MASSAGE?
Who knows your horse better than you? You know when they’re feeling good and when they are not! You see it and feel it while riding. You may not know what is bothering them but you know something is wrong. Sometimes it is obvious and other times it may be more subtle.
Sometimes a horse will create a new “vice” and it could be a way for them to release tension. Here is an example:
Below are signs that your horse may be hurting and could benefit from massage:
Untreated soft tissue injuries can be extremely problematic, chronic, and/or debilitating. A hurting horse is potentially a dangerous horse!
Try this:
Run your hand from withers to the poll. Do you feel heat or tightness? Massage is one of the most health-enhancing therapies that address soft tissue injuries.
Soft tissues are defined as the skin, fascia, muscles, tendons, joint capsules and ligaments of the body. Untreated soft tissue injuries can be extremely problematic, chronic and debilitating!
Snickers is receiving a tune-up just prior to her event.
Sussex County Farm & Horse Show, August 2007
Brandon King of East Hanover NJ on Snickers-Paint Mare
Here is what Brandon had to say:
"This massage greatly impacted Snickers while we were waiting for the race. She was more relaxed but also her concentration was high. Yet, during the race, her stride was longer and her turns were more fluid.
RESULTS COUNT
When we are competing, we are all want to win! Massage provides many of the same benefits for horses as it does for people.
Here is what Cindy S. of Wainscott, New York said:
“Woody was stiff & sore after the ride to Sussex and several days without turnout. His fabulous massage from Paul made him feel so much better and we ended up with two 1st and 2nd and 3rd”
Now that’s results!
