EQUINE MASSAGE
I am certified in Equine Myo-Manipulative Functional Therapy (CEMFT). This includes several techniques such as swedish massage, myofascial release & gua sha (this uses a stone tool to remove adhesions) as well as stretching (positional release) to reduce tension and increase range of motion.
I am also certified in Equine Sports Massage Therapy (CESMT) - Equissage Texas. This certification includes a specific sequence using several techniques to increase blood flow into ischemic tissue, separate muscle fibers and reduce or eliminate adhesions and fibrosis.
I continue to take further education classes in different techniques and methods and incorporate these into my sessions as required. My way of working is less of a traditional "sports massage protocol" and therefore I tend to refer to myself as a "bodyworker" rather than a traditional Sports Massage Therapist as very rarely do I ever not incorporate several methods into one session! It's more about reading the horse, making them aware of issues so they can help themselves work through a problem, slowly unwinding areas of restriction, tension and pain. Please see my "about us" section for a full list of classes I have taken.
Bodywork is always tailored for your horse, whether they are a performance or pleasure horse, retired horses and those on layup or in rehab. It can be used pre event for performance, post class for recovery and as part of a general maintenance and wellness program. Depending on your horse’s needs, weekly, bi-weekly or monthly sessions might be recommended and often it is beneficial to incorporate other methods, such as red light, pemf and/or acupuncture points (photopuncture or acupressure). If indicated we often kinesiology tape the horse at the end of the session to increase benefits. A lot of the time I will be using massage techniques alongside energy, meridian and cranial sacral techniques to release both physical and emotional restrictions in the horse.
Some benefits of Equine Massage:
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Relaxation & Stress Reduction
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Increased Flexibility of Soft Tissue
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Reduction of Edema
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Enhancement of Waste & Toxin Elimination
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Maintenance of Good Posture & Body Balance
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Prevention of Atrophy in Inactive Muscles
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Improvement in Athletic Performance
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Loosening & Softening of Scar Tissue
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Release of Endorphins (pain reduction)