Equine Sports Massage therapy
Why Sports massage?
Sports massage can be of enormous benefit, not just to help relax tight muscles, but to relax the mind as well.
I am qualified and fully insured, and cover Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire areas.
The muscles
Just as with humans, there can be so many reasons for horses to feel a bit tight and sore in their muscles. Maybe it's a one-off, silly moment out with field mates that's tweaked something, or after a particularly tough or different schooling session. A massage treatment can help by releasing trigger points or stress points that have built up within the muscles, aiding better circulation and in turn helping increase muscle tone. The techniques used can stretch out connective tissues, increasing joint mobility and flexibility.
The mind
Horses often respond very well to massage, relaxing deeply and releasing tensions held in their body. It could be that a particular sore point is making them grumpy or difficult to handle. Massage can help find and release that point, making it easier for them to work more effectively. Most horses relax and let go of tension during the treatment, although sometimes, particularly if it's a new experience, it's after the session finishes and when they're left quietly that they show deeper signs of relaxation.
Prevention
Looking after muscles can help prevent injuries in the future. A sore, tight muscle that doesn't have a chance to release can lead to overloading one side, putting additional pressure on ligaments and tendons, which can in turn lead to future, more serious, complications.
