Equine massage is fast becoming popular with top competitors to help keep their horses in peak condition. This is not surprising as the vast majority of the horse consists of skeletal muscle which provides locomotion. Muscles are made up of many fibres which extend and contract to provide movement. When one of these fibres becomes damaged the others bundle round it forming a knot which prevents it from moving and allows it to heal. This means the muscle will not work effciently. The horse will compensate for this by using its muscles in a different way. If muscle knots are not worked out by massage therapy the horse will continue to move in that way causing damage to the other muscles.
Some of the signs your horse may be experiencing muscle tension are stumbling, head tossing, refusing or restating leads, difficulty with lateral movemnet, shortened strides and poor disposition. However it is very important to get the horse checked by the vet before any massage is carried out to rule out any serious problems.
All breeds of horse can benefit from massage therapy no matter what their disapline. Race horses, polo ponies , dressage, eventers, showjumpers and eduracne horse can all benefit from regular massage as part of their maintenance routine. Massage can also help identify underlying problems therefore keeping the horse pain free and happy in their work.
Pre event massage. This is deigned to keep the equine athlete in peak condition. Massage enhances the circulatory system bringing more oxygen to the muscles and improving stamina. It also reduces muscle tension and improves the horses flexability. This will ready your equine athlete for a top performance.
Post event massage. This is performed after the competition. Massage reduces muscle spasm and the build up of metabolic toxins and lactic acid, which occur after vigorous exercise. This will prevent the horse from experiencing muscle soreness and becoming stiff.
Post operative massage. This will help stimulate the horses circulatory system during box rest. It also helps to maintain muscle tone and flexability. The massage itself relives bordom, relaxes and provide comfort fir the horse. It also speeds up the recovery process and helps prevent further injury when the horse is eventually turned out.
Massage therapy is never a replacement for proper veterinary care. A consent form must be completed by the horses vet before any massage can be carried out.
Equine massage is fast becoming popular with top competitors to help keep their horses in peak condition. This is not surprising as the vast majority of the horse consists of skeletal muscle which provides locomotion. Muscles are made up of many fibres which extend and contract to provide movement. When one of these fibres becomes damaged the others bundle round it forming a knot which prevents it from moving and allows it to heal. This means the muscle will not work effciently. The horse will compensate for this by using its muscles in a different way. If muscle knots are not worked out by massage therapy the horse will continue to move in that way causing damage to the other muscles.
Pre event massage. This is deigned to keep the equine athlete in peak condition. Massage enhances the circulatory system bringing more oxygen to the muscles and improving stamina. It also reduces muscle tension and improves the horses flexability. This will ready your equine athlete for a top performance.