Willowbrook Equine Massage Therapy

27/05/2026

So it come to light that Lenny had issues with flexion to his right side when preforming some carrot stretches.

So on further investigation I then found that Lenny had a tight spot in his Nuchal Ligament especially the Lamellar Part, which are the finger-like bands connecting the funicular cord to the cervical (neck) vertebrae.

So as you can see from the video the instant release of tension in Lenny neck from his body language.

Horses may not be able to tell us whats wrong like humans can but they wil always show you!

24/12/2025

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

I hope that all your equine companions have a great Christmas and get spoilt rotten, even with limited turnout this time of year dont be hard on yourself if you haven't ridden or done much this last month.

The shortest day has been and gone and we are now heading in the right direction to spring and I can't wait to see so many off you all in the new year!

Best Regards

14/12/2025

A recent study from the University of Tennessee has provided clear evidence of something trainers and recovery practitioners have long observed:
ground poles significantly increase muscle activation in key postural and core muscles.

What the Study Found

1. Walking over ground poles increases activity in:
• Longissimus dorsi (the major spinal extensor and topline muscle)
• Abdominal muscles (critical for core stability and back support)

This means that even at the walk, poles ask the horse to lift the limbs higher, stabilize the trunk, and coordinate posture more actively.

2. Trotting over ground poles increases activity in:
• Abdominal muscles

Trotting requires more dynamic stabilization, and the increased limb elevation over poles demands stronger engagement of the horse’s core to control the back and pelvis.

What This Means for Training and Rehab

These findings confirm what many practitioners have recommended for years:

Cavaletti and ground poles are one of the most effective, low-impact ways to:
• Strengthen the topline
• Activate and tone the abdominal muscles
• Improve back stability
• Enhance proprioception and coordination
• Encourage better posture and self-carriage

Because poles promote both spinal extensor activation (longissimus) and ventral line activation (abdominals), they help balance the horse’s musculoskeletal system — a key element in developing a healthy, strong, functional topline.

Why This Matters for Every Horse

Regular use of poles can help:
• Young horses develop correct movement patterns
• Performance horses maintain strength and prevent injury
• Horses in rehabilitation rebuild core control
• Older horses stay mobile and symmetrical

Best of all, the benefits occur even at the walk, making this exercise accessible for horses of all ages and fitness

10/11/2025

What it looks like massaging an 18hh horse.

Lenny was having his back warmed up and light massage before his ride.

As Lenny gets older it is very important that we make sure that his muscles are warmed up and firing up but we do too much with him to avoid any niggles or injury

14/10/2025

Stretching your horse is a great way to help mobility and flexibility.

Using a carrot works well but always remember that after horse will over stretch to get to this delicious treat so all stretches need to be within your horses ROM, also they need to be controlled so let your horse stretch and hold for a second before returning to a neutral position and then stretch again.

The amount you stretch and how far your horse can stretch will depend on alot of different factors so if you dont stretch your horse, dont get a carrot and try doing yoga with it as you will either cause damage or injury.

If you need any form of massage or stretching of your equine companion dont hesitate to get in contact.

05/10/2025

28/09/2025

To strengthen the longissimus dorsi in a horse (Topline)

☆ Ridden Exercises

• Hill Work: Riding up and down hills, at a slow trot or walk, strengthens the hindquarters, back, and abdominal muscles.

• Long and Low Riding: Encourage your horse to stretch their nose forward and down, seeking the bit with loose contact. This stretches the muscles of the topline and engages the abdomen to support the spine.

• Backing Up: Practice backing up, ensuring the horse is gaining the benefits of the movement for their topline.

☆ Groundwork Exercises

• Ground Poles: Walking or trotting over poles increases activity in the longissimus dorsi and abdominal muscles.

• Long and Lining: Use lunging and long-lining to develop core strength and lift the back.

• Carrot Stretches: Perform dynamic mobilization stretches, like the "carrot stretches," to strengthen the back and multifidus muscles.

☆ General Training and Management

• Nutrition: Provide a balanced, forage-first diet to support overall muscle health and nutrient absorption. Essential amino acids and other key nutrients are vital for muscle development.

• Consistency and Patience: Building a strong topline is a gradual process that requires consistent, progressive training and conditioning.

• Professional Guidance: Consult with a veterinarian or experienced equine professional to rule out any underlying back pain or muscle imbalances that could hinder progress.

• Core Strength: Focus on exercises that encourage the horse to lift its back and engage its abdominal muscles, which are crucial for supporting the topline.