Equine Massage Therapy
What is an equine massage? A horseback ride around the block does not necessarily mean that you are getting equine massage therapy. The horseback ride is not a massage therapy. However, there are certain techniques of massage that are commonly applied to horses for therapeutic reasons. An equine massage can improve the health and condition of the horse and also help a horse restore mobility, reduce stress and improve circulation.
An equine massage is performed by a professional horse trainer, usually on a regular basis depending upon the condition of the horse. There are many massage strokes that are commonly used on a horse. These include: the petrissage massage, the pectoral press, the retroflex, the acupressure, and the vibration. Each one is designed to release tight knots, release chronic tension, increase flexibility, stretch sore muscles, and stimulate the lymphatic system. Some of these techniques may be used at any point in a horse’s life.
The petrissage massage is given when a horse is young and still growing. The purpose of this massage stroke is to release tight muscle spasms. It stretches the muscle fiber, making it more flexible and increases the movement of the fibers. This type of stroke will also increase the size of the muscle allowing it to contract during other activities.
What Is An Equine Massage Therapy?
The pectoral press is a deep penetrating massage stroke that provides a deep tissue stretch. This will relax tight muscle groups such as the shoulder, chest, and hips. It will also stretch the deep fibers of connective tissue, providing greater mobility. This type of stroke will help restore posture and increase the range of motion of the hip joints and back.
The transverse abdominis stroke provides a deep penetrating massage to the abdomen and rectum. It will loosen the internal abdominal muscles and fecal areas. This will increase the flexibility of the organs and bowel systems. The transverse abdominis will also release any spasms of the intestines, allowing them to work more effectively. The internal areas will also be better oxygenated helping to prevent infections.
Horse massage therapy will increase the blood flow to all areas of the body and stimulate natural healing processes. The strokes will also help to reduce lactic acid build up in the muscles. A horse massage will prevent injury and promote healing. They will relieve stress, promote a relaxed state of mind and help to reduce anxiety. What is equine assisted therapy is an excellent choice for a horse lover who wants to give his or her horse a massage. It will provide a great massage that will provide the needed stimulation for a long and healthy horse.
