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Tutorial: How To Give Your Horse A Massage

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Massage therapy has been found useful in optimizing the health of horses, especially those bred for racing. Research shows that massage may be beneficial in rehabilitating injured horses, in preventing future injuries, as well as in diagnosing certain conditions in horses.

Horses are athletic and active by nature. Thus, they deserve to have an adequate amount of bodywork in order to maintain their longevity and vitality. With the help of expert equine massage therapists, the horse’s muscles are maintained which enable them to perform their functions at the optimum level. These therapists help in allowing muscles to be free from knots and tension, thereby enabling horses to return to their relaxed state. ^[1]

Research further shows that massage helps in regulating circulation. It plays a crucial role in the elimination of metabolic wastes from the body, as well as in enhancing the flow of oxygen back into the muscles. Through massage, the release of endorphin hormones is improved which results to lowered pain response. ^[2] By improving the circulation, the cells of the body are able to export toxins, producer energy and regenerate new cells.

Normally, a horse massage is applied in order to increase the tone and pliability of the muscles. Also, it can be beneficial in healing existing tissues which are often caused by overstretching, poor footing, overuse, illness, injury, poor conformation, and over training. ^[3] It significantly affects muscle performance by breaking down contracted muscles, and knots which are incapable of performing their functions efficiently.

Research reveals that a horse’s body is comprised of about 700 skeletal muscles, which takes around 60% of the equine’s body mass. This means that forcing a horse, which suffers from contracted muscles, to work, might just cause additional damage to horses, and deliver poor output. ^[4]

Other typical benefits of equine massage may include improved dilation of the blood vessels and return of blood to the heart, as well as enhanced muscle tone. It also prevents adhesion, as well as lessens swelling and stiffness.

Massage is further known for its sedating and stimulating effects to the nervous system of the body. It enables the horse to obtain a state of self-healing, mental clarity, and relaxation which can help in reaching their full potential at work. According to studies, horses with limited focus which are under mental stress, are less likely to perform their functions at their full potentials.

Want to discover tips on how you can massage your horse? Get free yet valuable insights here http://www.equisearch.com/horses_care/health/alternative_therapies/relieve-your-horses-back-tightness-with-massage/

References:
[1] http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/health/ch-massage.shtml
[2] http://www.equisearch.com/article/horse-massage-get-hands-on-12519
[3] http://www.healingwithenergy.com/massage_for_horses.html
[4] http://www.equine-massage-school.com/the-five-secret-benefits-of-equine-massage/