Equine Massage Therapy

Equine Massage Therapy is the therapeutic application of hands on massage techniques used to increase circulation, relax muscle spasms, relieve tension, enhance muscle tone, and increase range of motion in horses. Also used to maintain healthy muscle function, equine massage therapy, seeks to uncover and treat the causes of muscle-related problems before they result in injury. When focused on preventative care, equine massage and regular veterinary visits provide a holistic approach to maintaining a horse’s health and wellbeing. When working with an injured pet, equine massage therapy supports the medical treatment provided by a veterinarian by reducing pain and restoring physical function.

Massage differs from petting. It is directed, intentional manipulation of the muscles, joints, and 25+ stress points. Using the same massage principals for people, we apply slight variations and modifications for the four-legged species. We massage equines using an integrative approach of therapeutic techniques needed to address specific soft tissue dysfunction. For example, we might use Equine Myofascial Release for connective tissue conditions such as fascial adhesions causing pressure on capillaries and nerves, and/or decreased joint mobility. Neuromuscular Therapy provides restorative and long lasting effects by allowing us to balance the central nervous system by stabilizing low levels of neurological activity, allowing the muscles to reset, and thereby diminishing pain and improving circulation and joint movement.

Horses may display a range of symptoms that indicate the need for massage. For example, short choppy strides, jump refusals, and resistance may indicate muscle pain. A saddle slipping to one side, may point to uneven muscular development. Failure to address and eliminate the underlying condition may result in compensation in other areas of the body, which may in turn lead to injury. Ignoring these and other minor problems, may lead to the creation of major problems. Horses tend to mask injury out of self-preservation. Therefore, it is important to note that once a problem becomes noticeable, muscular dysfunction has already occurred. Equine massage therapy helps restore function and prevent injury.

How can you tell if your horse may need a massage?

• When walking, does one foot land heavier or softer than the other foot?
• When standing in his stall, does your horse rest the same leg all the time?
• Click here for more indicators that your horse may need a massage.

Contact Cindy at Plum Grove Therapeutic Massage to schedule an Equine Massage Therapy session for your horse today.

***NOTE**
The Services offered at Plum Grove Therapeutic Massage Therapy do not replace the need for proper veterinary or medical care. This practitioner does not make medical diagnoses, perform medical treatments or prescribe any form of medications. Please consult your veterinarian for specific diagnoses and treatments.

Return to top

Would you like to learn to deepen the bond between you and your horse?

Let Plum Grove Therapeutic Massage train you in Large Animal Massage.