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   Reinholds Horsewellness offers equine massage and professional grooming services
 
BENEFITS OF EQUINE MASSAGE

Equine Massage improves wellbeing in case of muscle pain, stiffness and tension in muscles and connective tissues, prevents muscle spasms, soreness and related performance issues.
Equine massage is said to improve the performance of a horse by up to 30%. Why else would horse massage be practiced on race tracks, during Olympic Competitions and the International Show Circuit?

geldingDid you ever experience a full body massage? Did you ever feel tense and someone gave you a relaxing shoulder massage? How did you feel afterwards? 

Speaking from my own experience, I must say I feel like a new born baby every time I receive a massage from a knowledgable professional human massage therapist. My muscles feel light, my movement is unimpaired, stiffness has evaporated and I am ready to conquer the world. Can equine massage have the same effect on the horse?

YES! About 60% of a horses body weight is muscle. The horse actually uses EVERY muscle in its body with every step! The horse is one of natures most effective athletes and optimally designed for its natural environment as a forager and prey animal, who walks great distances grazing and runs and sprints when danger is near.


horse muscles

 

The tasks, however, that humans are asking of the horse is not what its designed to do by nature. We are asking him to pull loads up to 9 times his body weight, carry saddles and riders, respond to demands, overcome his natural fears and perform movements regularly, which he would most likely never perform in his natural habitat. This abundance of rather unnatural activity can cause the horse to develop muscle stiffness, muscle spasms and resulting discomfort or pain that leads to performance issues, pain related behavior problems and even to lameness or refusal to perform certain exercises or movements. (If your horse experiences any of these symptoms, consult with your veterinarian first to rule out health issues before muscular relaxation massage is performed.)

Professionally practiced Equine Massage can:

  • Increase the bloodflow to muscles
  • Improve range of free motion
  • Improve performance and gait quality
  • Loosen tight muscle spasms
  • Relax connective tissues
  • Prevent injuries
  • Maintain good muscle tone and health
  • Relax the horse and contribute to mental soundness

A horse that is massaged on a regular basis is less likely to develop painful muscle spasms. A horse that is suffering from muscular tension, spasms and discomfort can reclaim free range of motion, improve performance and gait quality and perform to the best of his ability after receiving professional equine massage. Results can often be observed after only one session.

 

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PLEASE NOTE

Equine Massage is NEVER a substitute for veterinary care. If you are in doubt about the physical condition of your horse, please consult a veterinarian.