Buy Australian | Lifetime Warranty | Zero Interest Finance Available | SAVE $100 + FREE DELIVERY USE CODE HAPPYEASTERx

Equestrian Massage Therapy: What You Need to Know

Equestrian Massage Therapy What You Need to Know

In recent years, there’s been a massive growth in the interest and use of massage therapy for horses.

While this practice may seem a little silly to some, there are countless benefits related to equine massage therapy that make it the perfect solution for rehabilitation purposes.

Continue reading for more information on this hot new trend that is quickly taking the equine health industry by storm.

Equestrian Massage Therapy What You Need to Know

What Is Equine Massage Therapy?

Equine massage therapy is the practice of manipulating the soft tissue in order to achieve pain relief, relaxation, improved locomotion, and increased blood flow.

It is performed by a licensed professional that travels to different barns and stables in order to work on their “patients”. 

Massage therapy can be done with the therapist’s fingers, hands, elbows, or even with specialized vibrating tools; the exact method that is used is dependent on the therapist’s preferences, as well as what they wish to achieve for the horse with the massage.

Equestrian Massage Therapy What You Need to Know

Pain Management And Relief

One of the most common uses of equine massage therapy is in the relief and management of pain, usually post-trauma.

It’s quite common for injured racehorses to receive massage therapy in order to manage their pain levels and increase the range of motion of the targeted area.

Massage is done in order to loosen up the muscles, and in some cases it can be done to loosen up scar tissue, as well.

This gives the horse a larger range of motion to be used and reduces tension, which essentially reduces and relieves pain.


Circulation

Another benefit of massage therapy is the positive effect it has on the circulation of blood in the targeted area. Increased blood flow and circulation aids in the treatment of horses who may be confined to their stall due to injury or illness. This is done to prevent edema in the leg, and can aid in the prevention of stocking up.


Relaxation

A large part of rehabilitation is ensuring not only the horse’s physical well being, but their mental well being, as well. Massage therapy is an excellent way to reduce the heart rate and relax the horse.

Injury or illness can cause a massive change in a horse’s stress levels and overall temperament, but this is something that can easily be managed by ensuring that the horse receives massage therapy. 

Massage therapy is not only used to relax or calm horses that have been subject to injury or illness; in the racing industry, many racehorses receive massage therapy in order to ensure that they remain as relaxed and calm as possible.

Many horse owners choose to have massage therapy sessions done for their horse simply to treat them or ensure their happiness. During a massage treatment, many horses will visibly relax.

Equestrian Massage Therapy What You Need to Know

Behavioural Improvements

Many horse owners can attest to the fact that any illness or injury has the potential to cause the horse to behave erratically. Massage therapy has proven itself to have a massive impact on behavioural improvements when an injury or illness is concerned.

Going forward with the information you have learned in this article, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on whether you feel equine massage therapy is right for you and your horse.

Conduct some research to find a reputable equine massage therapist in your area and schedule a consultation to see how this wonderful health practice can benefit you and your horse.


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

305/245 St Kilda Road, Melbourne 3182

Call - 1300 218 212