KG Equine Massage Therapy
What kind of horses benefit from massages?
- Every horse can benefit from a massage! Any horse in work, Any retired horse, or any horse in rehabilitation coming back from a injury!
Horses can have muscle tension that will turn into a spasm. A spasm is contracted fibers unable to obtain their own release. It can grow in time. As it grows the horse can become “off” this can be as a result of the spasm. Horses will learn to compensate themselves by not traveling straight, acting girthy, back sore, swapping leads, tossing their heads, refusing fences or a lot of other behaviors!
The number one benefit from a massage is increased circulation!
As a result of the increased circulation the body releases endorphins (body’s natural pain killer) and loosens all of the muscles rebalancing your equine partner!
Boosts Immune System!
A horse in Rehab/Lay up can have 'muscle memory'. Meaning the horse may "think" they are still injured..Massage will help increase the circulation and promote healing. This will help prevent any more injuries and re-injuries!
Many older/retired horses may have medical issues such as Cushing’s Disease, Navicular and/or Laminitis…Massage is very helpful in loosening the shoulders which become sore from hoof pain. Many times the older horses have lower back & Gluteal (rump) pain from 'rocking back'. If a retired or older horse moves around less, Massage aids the body by increasing the circulation which also will help with digestion and overall mental well-being
Tension
Have you ever had a 'kink' in your neck and were unable to turn your head? Horses hold tension in their upper neck. If a horse were tense or had a spasm it would be uncomfortable for them to bend or turn their heads..Massage will help loosen those sore muscles so they are soft/supple and able to stretch and bend without injury!
Enhances muscle tone and increases range of motion.
Helps horses be more supple.
Releases toxin build up.
Relieves Stress.
Promotes overall health; Mentally and physically.
* Massage Therapy is NOT a subsitute to Veterinary Care. ALL Veterinary care supercedes and owners are encouraged to contact their Veterinarian if they have any problems/concerns. Massage is used with conventional care provided by a Vet. It is also used with proper health care, maintenance and training. Massage does not attempt to cure anything. Equine Massage Therapists do not diagnose!