FAQs
What is Equine Bodywork and Why is it Beneficial to My Horse?
Equine bodywork consists of multiple modalities to assist the horse with improving range of motion, relaxation, increased circulation, and overall well-being. Masterful Massage, LLC employs the Masterson Method of bodywork, in which the practitioner works in concert with the horse in helping him release tension. Horses accumulate tension in their bodies for a number of reasons such as being in regular work, experiencing an injury, having an ill-fitting saddle, compensating for pain, or just by living a domesticated life. Bodywork can assist your horse by helping him release that tension from nose to tail. Furthermore, range of motion is improved due to the horse releasing tension in the three major junctions of his body.
How Can I Prepare for the Session?
Please have your horse in his stall or another clean, quiet area with his halter on and lead rope handy. It would be helpful if he could be brushed clean in advance, and he should not have access to anything other than water.
What Should I Expect During a Session?
Jennifer will first meet with you to get some background information about your horse, his job, and any areas of concern that you are experiencing. She will then evaluate your horse by palpating his body and legs to learn where the horse is currently experiencing soreness. A typical session will last approximately 90 minutes. Horses express the release of tension in various ways such as yawning, licking and chewing, sighing, and shifting weight. They also often fidget as they prepare to release tension. You may see all of these things in a session, or the horse may guard against being vulnerable and won't release tension until he is left alone afterward. Please note that Jennifer is not a veterinarian and cannot diagnose illness or lameness.
How Often Does My Horse Need Bodywork?
Each horse is different and their needs are truly individual. Some horses may need bodywork every few weeks. Others may only need it monthly or semi-monthly to maintain their comfort and range of motion. It is recommended that horses receive a bodywork session approximately three days prior to a chiropractic adjustment.
When Can I Ride My Horse Before and After a Session?
Bodywork is best done when muscles are cool. Therefore, you should finish a ride and have your horse completely cool at least 2 hours prior to a bodywork session. Because the Masterson Method connects to the horse's neurological system, the horse will continue processing the bodywork and releasing tension for hours or even days after a session. Horses should ideally be turned out after a session, and they should have the following day off. Bodywork should be done 2 to 3 days before a competition.