What is equine massage therapy and bodywork?
Equine Massage is the application of massage therapy techniques applied to a horse.
Sport horses are very similar to human athletes. When athletes push their bodies, muscle damage can occur, from micro traumas being the least serious to muscle strain or tears being the most serious. Massage therapy and bodywork helps to prevent injury by preparing horses for work/events, relieving post work muscle stress, and maintaining healthy muscle tissue.
Depending on the horse and discipline, we can implement an individualized massage therapy plan to keep your horse on track!
How will my horse benefit?
Massage therapy helps horses of any level prepare for and recover from strenuous workouts or competition.
Massage therapy alleviates pain, attention, and discomfort.
Increases blood flow and oxygen circulation throughout the body.
Increases lymphatic flow.
Increase his range of motion in joints and lubricates joints.
Reduces inflammation and swelling.
Reduces cramping and muscle spasm.
Relaxes and softens injured, tired and over used muscles.
Releases endorphins in the body.
Helps to eliminate waste and toxins in the body.
Improve athletic performance in sport horses.
Breaks down scar tissue.
Helps with with muscle soreness after strenuous activity.
What type of horses benefit from massage therapy and bodywork?
All horses can benefit greatly from massage! Sport horses, hunter/jumper,dressage, pasture, pleasure, trail, working, elderly, driving, ponies and broodmares etc… all can have their health and quality of life improved.
If your horse is showing any of these signs, it could be sore muscles:
- Bucking
- Refusing to pick up the correct lead
- Head tossing
- Difficulty with lateral movements
- Girthing problems
- Attitude changes
- “Cold backed”
** Massage does not replace proper veterinary care. Please consult a veterinarian in case of injury, lameness or any condition you are not sure about.