About Horse Massage

Massaging Nikki

History

Massage therapy was originally developed to enhance the performance of human athletes and to improve overall health and well-being.

In the late 1970s, massage therapy was applied to horses on the U.S. Equestrian Team, with outstanding results. Gradually, training programs were developed for certification in equine massage therapy. Today, this therapy is available for all kinds of horses.

Technique

Equine massage therapy is a direct pressure technique that prevents and relieves muscle spasms, tension, and strains, which can cause shortening of stride, stiffness, and even lameness. It is based on the same principles as human massage, using direct pressure, cross-fiber friction, and compression of muscle fibers and pressure points to release tension and knots, enhance muscle tone, and relax muscles.

Massage therapy can be combined with energy therapy, which concentrates on areas that are not conducive to receiving direct pressure (e.g., kidneys, lower legs). This technique uses the horse's natural fields of energy, assisting the body's own healing capabilities by promoting a balanced and increased energy flow.

Benefits

The many benefits of equine massage therapy include:

Increased range of motion
Improved circulation
Enhanced muscle tone
Relief of tension
Boosting of athletic performance and endurance
Relaxation
Ease of muscle spasms
Stimulation of lymphatic system
Hastening elimination of waste products and other toxins
Promotion of more rapid healing by increasing nutrient flow to muscles
General improvement of disposition
Improvement of overall well-being

Two recent scientific studies (1,2) evaluated the effects of massage on horses and found measurable reductions in stress levels as well as increases in range of motion. Both are very important findings, clearly showing that therapeutic massage improves the performance and well-being of horse athletes. Used as a complement to traditional veterinary care and other therapies such as acupuncture and chiropractic, equine massage is an important component of complete horse care. Massage is the only modality that specifically addresses the muscular system.

When to massage

Massage is beneficial just about any time, except if a horse has a fever or is in shock. Massage is particularly appropriate:

As a supplement to treatment for specific injuries
Before, during, and after competition
During a lay-up
For preventive health care
To promote relaxation and good health

All ages and types of horses can feel significantly better from regular massage!

Most Equine Alchemy, LLC, equine clients receive therapeutic massages on a monthly basis. Monthly sessions are particularly helpful over time because the horses show increased flexibility and faster response. The frequency of massage can be increased as needed, such as when a horse is recuperating from an injury or has a demanding show schedule.

Response Of Horses To Massage

Horses respond quickly and positively to massage. They are very honest about clearly communicating their sore spots (from flinching to biting or kicking) as well as letting you know what feels good (see photos). As a horse relaxes during a massage, the eyes start to flutter, the head drops, muscles release, and huge yawns are common. Some horses even fall asleep and start snoring! And, unlike many of us humans, they readily release their tensions as the massage enhances relaxation.

NOTE: Equine massage therapy is not a substitute for veterinary medicine.

McBride, S.D., A. Hemmings, and K. Robinson. “A Preliminary Study on the Effect of Massage to Reduce Stress in the Horse.” Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 2004; vol. 24, no. 2:76-81.
Wilson, J. “The Effects of Sports Massage on Athletic Performance and General Function.” Massage Therapy Journal 2002; Summer:90-100.