Why Massage?

During a massage, therapists target tension in the muscles and help the horse release it. Just like in humans, pain is often held in the most tense areas and releasing the tense muscle releases the pain. 

Also, tense muscles can put uncomfortable amounts of pressure on the horse's bones and joints, causing excess pain.

After an injury scar tissue can build. This means that the skin and muscle fibers around the injury site harden to protect and rebuild. Massage loosens scar tissue gradually, helping the horse move more freely and reducing the associated pain.

Massage can be a great addition to a treatment plan after an injury. By loosening tightened connective tissue, massage helps improve a horse’s overall locomotor function. This helps them move more freely as well.

The compression and release pattern of equine massage can help promote circulation in the superficial areas of the limbs. Acupressure release is also used where we essentially restrict blood flow to an area for a few seconds and then release allowing the blood to rush back to that area. This is a more focused approach to promoting increased circulation. 

The lymphatic system is considered the sanitation system in a horses body. This system runs all over their bodies at the surface and deeper level. Movement is critical to keeping this system working properly. Typically the movement we ask our horses to do on a daily basis is not enough to keep their lymphatic system draining correctly. Massage helps manually stimulate and break  blockages in the system that stop toxins from draining. 

It is very easy to see the rapid relaxation that occurs in most horses during a massage. Many horses visibly relax, will drop their head, lick and chew, pass gas, and have bowel movements. Their heart and breathing rates even lowers. 

Any extended amount of time spent with your horse is beneficial for building a connection. Practicing stretches and basic massage techniques given by your massage therapist can not only help sooth and calm your horse, but also help build feelings of trust and fondness. Being mindful of your movements and intentions while interacting with your horse also encourages us to slow our mind and body down. This helps facilitate an overall calming experience for horse and human.