Equine Sports Massage is the therapeutic application of professional sports massage techniques applied to the horse. A sports massage therapist is able to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the horse's anatomy and the interaction of all bones, joints and muscles as a basis of the proven physical and mental therapy, which is the art of massage.
Sports massage has been proven to increase performance, stamina, well-being and prevention/recovery of injury for both horse and rider.
Annabelle has been trained to assess a horse's posture and movement to identify the precise location of a muscle problem/injury and what the cause of it may be.
When should sports massage be used?
Throughout training 'pre and post competition' massage helps to keep the muscles healthy and active, builds those that have deteriorated and helps to sustain suppleness and the prevention of atrophy.
Post exertion/competition massage reduces stiffness and aids in the repair of damaged tissues, which are more often than not, a direct result of fatigue and physical exertion.
Passive stretches and movements can also be introduced at this stage to help restore muscles and joints to there full working capacity.
The following are common signs of muscular tension, injury or dysfunction:
- Poor performance
- Lateral stiffness
- Refusing to jump
- Stiffness/ pain
- Cold back
The following are benefits of equine sports massage:
- Improve joint and muscle mobility
- Increase length of stride and range of motion
- Improve muscle condition and tone
- Aid in pre and post event preperation
- Ease pain and stiffness
WHAT TO EXPECT
Stage 1: Veterinary permission obtained.
Stage 2: A thorough visual and palpative assessment of the horse, including seeing them being walked and trotted in hand. Some additional work on the lunge or under saddle may be required in some circumstances.
Stage 3: Production of a full case history, followed by a hands-on-approach using suitable sport massage techniques.
Stage 4: A case report will be drawn up when required.
