WHAT IS EQUINE BODYWORK?
Equine bodywork is quite simply massage therapy for horses. Massage therapy techniques have been around for thousands of years and are a common and popular form of complementary therapy for both humans and animals. Whilst many people believe that such therapies are reserved for athletes, this really isn’t the case! The benefits of Equine Bodywork are many for horses and ponies of all ages, breeds, disciplines and lifestyles.
HOW A BODYWORKER MAY HELP
The most common reason for an owner or trainer to seek an Equine Bodyworker is when performance issues arise in generally healthy horses. After all – you know when your horse is just not himself!
Just a selection of common issues an Equine Bodyworker may help resolve:
- soft tissue restrictions
- tight fascia
- generalised anxious behaviour
- negative movement habits as a result of past injuries
- tightness around old scar tissue
- postural issues due to external factors (i.e., ill-fitting saddle)
Through equine bodywork, we can help retrain the body to move in a more balanced way. Massaging of the tissues not only helps them to relax and soften from their contracted state, but it can also help improve the circulation, restoring nutrient flow to the starving tissues and facilitating the removal of waste products from the area.
Additionally, the more flexible and balanced the body, the less susceptible it is to injury. Contracted muscles have a compromised blood flow, which may result in the build up of lactic acid if waste materials are not removed effectively. If a muscle is in a constant state of contraction it may become weak, causing adjoining muscles, tendons and ligaments to work harder and strain beyond their own limits to compensate. Regular bodywork can help to reduce these risks by maintaining optimal tissue flexibility and health.
Last but definitely not least – massage therapy can be beneficial to the emotional well-being of your animal. This is thought to be due to the release of neurotransmitters responsible for improving mood and decreasing levels of stress in the body. This is such an important benefit as horses that feel better emotionally and physically are going to have better attitudes overall – a happy horse makes a happy owner!
WHAT RESULTS CAN I EXPECT?
You may be able to see real-time results during the bodywork session; how your horse reacts, immediate positive responses and relaxation behaviour shown. Or results may be seen after the session, such as; improved performance, improved behaviour or a generally happier and more comfortable animal. Just like humans, results may vary with individual animals!
The information on this page is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any condition or illness, nor is it meant replace proper veterinary care. It is meant for educational purposes only. Always consult your chosen veterinary professional before starting your animal on any therapy.
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