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The massage procedure (what to expect):
Once veterinary consent is gained an initial in depth consultation will take place at a time suitable for both you and your horse. By applying my extensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology, bio-mechanics and gait analysis I will develop an appropriate treatment plan for your horse, this will include:
- Signing of forms - permission to massage forms.
- Full case history - Including previous veterinary conditions, type of work, shoeing, saddle fitting, routine etc.
- Static evaluation - conformation etc.
- Dynamic evaluation - observation of the horse moving in hand, a level flat surface area will be ideal for this and where appropriate the horse might be lunged or ridden and the tack checked for fit.
- Assessment - Palpation of soft tissues to identify specific areas of pain or spasm.
- Treatment - Use of specialized sports massage techniques and passive and dynamic stretching. A quite area is required for treatment, a stable is fine with no hay to distract the horse and a rug may be required in cooler weather especially for a clipped horse. The horse should also be clean and dry prior to massage.
- Aftercare - Advice on care and exercise following treatment.
Please allow two hours for the initial assessment but it can be longer if the horse is fidgety, follow up sessions usually take one to one and a half hours. The ideal time for a session is a quite time at your yard; for example it's best not at feed or turn out time as the horse is liable to be disturbed and unlikely to stand. It is also advisable to have a full session the day before a competition as the horse might be slightly sore especially if a lot of tension is found.
Types of massage therapy:
Maintenance: As a regular part of the horses exercise program to keep muscles in tone and aid in the prevention of injury.
Pre-event: As part of a training and injury prevention program by loosening and warming up muscles prior to competition. Only after full initial consultation.
Post-event: As part of the cooling down and recovery process, thus reducing soreness and stiffness in muscles. Only after full initial consultation.
Rehabilitation: As part of the recovery program to facilitate faster healing through increased blood flow and prevention of compensatory lameness.
How often should my horse be massaged?
This all depends on the demands on the horse, it's conformation, condition etc, but as a general guide:
High performance: Every 1-2 weeks for a deep massage.
General riding (4-5 days a week): Every 2-4 weeks.
Light work/retired: Every 4-6 weeks:
Rehabilitation: As per vets instructions.
The equine massage therapist is part of a professional equine health team together with the vet, farrier, physiotherapist, dentist, saddle fitter etc, imparting
and comparing knowledge with other members of the team to ensure the horse has the best possible care.
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