Typical session

When you book an appointment with me I will gather some information from you so that I can contact your Vet prior to the session to gain permission for the treatment of the horse under the Veterinary Act.

For the initial session please allow 1½  hours. At the start of the session you will be asked questions about your horse including normal temperament, past medical history and any schooling problems. Further sessions will last about 1 hour.

I will observe your horse standing, walking and trotting, and if necessary on the lunge or on different surfaces. This will, of course, be dependent on factors such as facilities and the horses age and health.

The things I will be observing are his confirmation, condition and any muscular asymmetry along with other important aspects such as teeth, shoeing, feet and saddle/bridle fit, making a note as to how these might affect his movement and performance potential

Once I have evaluated your horse I will give him a sports massage, using a variety of techniques appropriate to him, and paying particular attention to any problem areas.

The techniques

Effleurage

Using one, both or alternate hand, strokes are applied in a series of movements in a rhythmic way, without losing contact, in the direction of the venous return of the blood.

The movements are repeated, progressing over the body. The effect is of relaxation, the rubbing effect on the tissues leads to a natural release of opiates in the body which reduces local discomfort. The circulation is increased and the removal of toxins is assisted.

 

Petrissage

This technique replicates the natural pressure changes that occur in a muscle during activity.

It can be carried out using one or both hands, a fist, elbow or for very small areas, the fingertips.

Pressure is applied inward compressing the tissues, then sweeping upwards and releasing at the same time. This is repeated again and again on adjacent tissues. The technique helps to relieve tension and aids the mobility of fluids and cells in the tissues.

 

Tapotement

Tapotement is a series of brisk invigorating strokes used to stimulate the tissues and the blood supply.

The main methods are:

Hacking – a light chopping action using the border of each hand, with movement coming from the wrist rather than the elbow.

Clapping – The hands are made into a cup shape and, with the action coming from the wrist, the hands are alternatively dropped and lifted, making a hollow sound. The cup shape of the hand forms a pocket of air against the skin and has the effect of increasing the circulation

Friction

Friction is used on problem areas to induce an inflammatory response throughout a scar and surrounding tissue, in order to encourage natural healing.

This can minimise scar tissue that would otherwise impair performance.

Friction is normally applied using a fingertip, reinforced if necessary by a second.

The digit is moved in a small circular or transverse action, normally across the muscle fibres rather than along them.

After the massage - stretches

After the massage session, your horse will be given passive and/or active stretches as required.

A passive stretch is one in which the therapist, not the horse, carries out the movement i.e. the therapist moves the joint through the normal range of motion without an active contribution of muscle contraction from the horse. This normally applies to limbs in the non weight-bearing position. A passive stretch follows the normal range of movement for a joint, then at the end of the range of movement more pressure is applied to increase the range.

An active stretch is one where the horse carries out the movement itself, usually encouraged by the use of a tidbit. Stretching is aimed at maintaining or restoring a normal range of movement and helping the flexibility of muscles and good mobility of joints. Without this flexibility the range of movement is restricted which can lead to muscle fatigue resulting in injury.

Finally

At the end of the session I discuss my findings with the owner and, if applicable, I will advise you on

·         When the horse should next be treated

·         maintaining the benefits of the session

·         massage techniques that you can use yourself

·         follow-up exercises/stretching that may help to improve suppleness

·         whether I feel that the horse needs further attention from a Vet, farrier, saddle fitter or dentist

All assessments/findings carried out are recorded for every horse visited for future reference and a written report of the session is sent to the vet if requested.