Equine Sports Massage
What is Equine Sports Massage?
Massage is a hands-on therapy that involves assessment and manipulation of the body using a range of soft tissue techniques alongside stretching, joint mobilisations and muscle activations. During each session I will work with your horse to engage their mind and body to induce relaxation and get the most out of their session.
By assessing the many factors that can influence a horse’s way of going, I can work with you towards improving their overall performance, comfort and lifestyle.
Most soft tissue problems are accumulative, with the exception of when they are caused by underlaying illness or trauma. These would require the intervention of your veterinarian.
Muscle sensitivity can be an indicator of a health issue, tack/equipment problem or related to training and conditioning. detecting these by a skilled therapist could help to prevent further injury and restore your horse's natural movement patterns.
History Behind Equine Massage Therapy
Archaeological evidence of massage has been found in many ancient civilisations including China, India, Japan, Korea, Egypt, Rome, Greece and Mesopotamia, and the first written records were found in China and Egypt. Humans have continued to practice massage throughout the ages, and massage started to gain popularity in the equine world in the early 1990’s.
It's reported that Equine Sports Massage Therapy largely owes itself to a man called Jack Meagher )1925 - 3005). Through his work as a human physical therapist, Jack developed a technique to address the underlying causes of muscular issues before they developed into injuries. This technique was called Sports Massage.
Transferring this technique to equines was a pure accident when Jack was asked to assist a broken-down quarter horse. The results were amazing. He then went on to study equine anatomy & practice on every horse he could find.
The Benefits of Equine Sports Massage.
Increasing the range of movement and stride length.
Reducing muscle tension and soreness.
Encouraging a greater flexibility and range of motion.
Enhancing blood flow.
Reducing stress.
Offering support to the immune system.
Reducing fatigue.
Reducing the activity of nociceptive pain receptors.
Reducing muscle spasm.
Promoting an increased sense of wellbeing.
Improving proprioception.
Improving posture, circulation, coat and muscle tone.
Helping to prevent injury.
