05/31/2023
Many times I get asked about stiffness in movement and how a massage may help this. A simple answer is, a massage helps loosen the muscles up allowing your horse to move freely and forward. But I like to get more in depth on why we may notice a stiffness and how to help it long term.
Stiffness in horses can be caused by numerous things; foot soreness, muscle soreness, abdominal pain, past/ present injuries, neurological deficits, arthritis, and over excursion. Massage can help each of these issues by relieving tight muscles, removing toxins, increasing blood flow and oxygen, and breaking up adhesions.
With the increased blood flow and oxygen, knots can be released, scar tissue can loosen, and toxins in the body can be removed and healthy cells can form. Massage and stretching can help restore a horse's mobility after an injury by reducing tension as collagen fibers heal and realign themselves post trauma.
Massage can help the body recover after an increase in work load and help prevent further injuries and muscle damage. All of these things together help loosen up the muscles, causing a more freely fluid movement. Another question I get is, will I notice a difference after one massage? The answer can be as simple as you want it. Typically, yes. You’ll notice a more relaxed looser muscle and movement. But, it depends on a few variables. Is a past injury and how it healed causing the muscle soreness? Is there a current injury that is undiagnosed? Is there an arthritic condition that is causing the muscles to tense up to support the joints, ligaments, etc. or is there a neurological cause to the muscle tension? Within 3 massages you should notice some difference in attitude, gait, or posture. The more we treat muscle spasms and keep inducing healthy cells, oxygen and blood, the better your animal will feel and look long term.
Interested in booking a massage? Feel free to send me a pm or give a phone call at 484-818-1712. If we miss your call, feel free to leave a voicemail or a text and we will get back to you. Till then, happy riding!😁