Equine Massage

 

I was introduced to equine massage therapy through the course I took for Equine Trigger Point Myotherapy in CT, Equi-Myo.

Myotherapy or “Muscle therapy” is a non-invasive adjunctive modality which aids in the relief of muscular pain and dysfunction. Using massage techniques, compression, stretching and corrective exercises, Myotherapy can have many physical and emotional benefits for the horse and rider alike.

Tender and painful spots in the soft tissue, either muscle or fascia, are known as “Trigger Points”. These are spots which can cause localized and referred pain, as well as muscle spasm, decreased range of movement, and fatigue.

Myotherapy can help to break the pain-spasm-pain cycle which can lead to chronic pain and dysfunction. It can help to alleviate existing chronic pain, as well as aid in healing and prevention of injuries.

Sessions are scheduled to give the most benefit to the Horse and Rider. This can sometimes be a series of sessions or a regular treatment schedule.

 

What are the physical benefits of Myotherapy?

    * Helps to prevent muscle and soft tissue injuries
    * Increase circulation of blood and lymph
    * Can aid in digestion
    * Increase Range of Motion and flexibility
    * Helps to relieve muscle tension and stiffness
    * Helps to promote healing of injuries
    * Helps to relieve pain and muscle spasm
    * Helps to enhance athletic performance
    * Helps to relieve stress and enhance the immune system

 

 What are the psychological benefits of Myotherapy?


    * Helps to decrease anxiety and nervousness
    * Helps to increase relaxation
    * Invigorates and energizes
    * Helps to  increase attention span
    * Helps to enhance the connection between Horse and Rider

 

It is highly recommended that horses  are put on a regular schedule of Myotherapy treatments in order to help prevent injuries and keep muscles soft and supple.


Myotherapy is not a substitute for veterinary care.  Please consult your veterinarian if your horse appears to be sick or is having any lameness issues.
 
 
Working with horses is extremely rewarding work.  They have no expectations, and typically accept body and energy work with very little resistance.  Of course, this does not mean there are never tough cases and safety is of the utmost importance for the horse and for the handler.  An owner or handler must be present for, at least, the first couple of sessions.  Usually, the horse will settle into the treatment as it becomes more relaxed and familiar with what is going on.  If a horse is recovering from an injury or is suffering from a build up of muscular tension, muscular manipulation and Trigger Point work can be uncomfortable for them. 
I always work within the limit of what the horse is willing to tolerate.  If this means I have to back off a little, and use myofascial or energy work to make the horse more comfortable, I will do that.

Reading the horse's body language and reactions is a huge part of the process.  I always work with intuition and follow the tissue as well as the reactions from the horse. Yawning, licking and chewing are common signs that a horse is enjoying the work.  Sleepy, soft eyes, and a relaxed demeanor, head hanging low or nodding are others.