Equine Massage however, presents a modern concept in the equestrian world, but think back to our predecessors! Little did they know that when they were strapping their trusty steeds, they were in fact massaging them.
It is not a new concept and can be dated as far back as 380BC. The word massage is derived from Arabic ‘mass’ or ‘mash’ meaning ‘to gently press’
Benefits of Equine Massage
‘…massage has both physiological & psychological benefits.’
- increase and improve range of movement
- relax muscle spasms
- enhance muscle tone
- improve & increase circulation
- improve & increase lymphatic drainage
- improve muscle proprioception
- enhance performance, physically & mentally
- improve behaviour
- prevent further injury
- improve recovery time post training, competition or injury
… allowing overall improvement in performance & aiding the horse to reach its full potential.
Massaging Java:
Massaging Niki:
Equine Checklist
Does your horse:
- compete regularly
- experience stiffness post exercise or rest
- take longer to warm up when exercising
- experience intermittent or constant lameness with no obvious cause
- “hangs” onto or presents stiffness on one rein
- show difficulty in transitions
- show excessive head movement during exercise
- refuse to perform specific movements
Has your horse changed its normal behaviour pattern?
- Easily tiring in work for no obvious reason
- Irritation when girthing or saddling up
- Irritation during exercise or reluctance to move freely
- Carrying head, hindquarters or tail to one side
- Bucking, napping or rearing on a regular basis
If any of the above is familiar to you then Total Therapy- Equine Sports Massage will benefit you and your horse. Upon assessment, if we can not treat the source of the problem, we can advise on alternative treatment which can be supported by Equine Sports Massage.
