EQUINE MASSAGE THERAPY (EMT)

 

Benefits

  • Reduce pain and tension.

  • Stimulates the release of endorphins.

  • Lowers risk of injury.

  • Improves muscle tone and elongates connective tissue.

  • Increases flow of nutrient-rich blood to muscles.

  • Stimulates and cleanses the lymphatic system.

  • Improved emotional health and behavior.

  • Relaxation.

Frequency

Each horse is different and Ashley works together with owners and trainers to establish a program suitable for each individual horse. Horses in training who travel and compete generally will require sessions closer together than the average pleasure horse. However, most horses initially benefit from having a few sessions spaced about 7-14 days apart to soften the muscles, and resolve any problems that may be present. Following that, sessions can be spread further apart, depending on the workload and stress that the horse is exposed to. 

As a rule of thumb:

  • The pleasure/occasional show horse:

    Generally every 3 to 4 weeks

  • The competition horse:

    Generally every 2 weeks

  • High level competition hose (GP/FEI level):

    Generally every 1 to 2 weeks

  • Retired/Pleasure horse:

    Generally every 6 weeks

 

Process

Starting with an evaluation to determine specific needs of the horse, any contraindications will be discussed with the owner/rider.

Sessions range from 1-2 hours.

Each session covers the entire horse, and includes checking 40 stress points, trigger points, throughout the work.  

Initial session includes a thorough static and dynamic examination at no additional cost. Every session after that includes a brief static and dynamic check, unless a more in depth exam seems necessary. 

The dynamic exam is either done in hand, on the lunge line, or under saddle, depending on the circumstances. 

A light hack is recommended the same day,  following the body work.

Light work is recommended the day following a session. Allowing the horse to get used to a new way of moving and work out any potential tenderness that may result. Horses on a maintenance program can generally resume regular work the following day.

 
 
 
 

Since horses are a prey animal, they instinctively try to hide their pain. Horses try to talk to us and we need to listen. When a horse misbehaves or is unwilling, it could be trying to communicate pain. The horse also uses facial expressions to communicate pain. It is important that we notice subtle signs and changes and then alleviate their pain in a timely manner. When pain is not addressed, the body adapts to the pain, thus affecting muscle memory and neuro-pathways and then the horse habitually moves in a compensating manner.