WHAT IS EQUINE SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPY?

· It is a therapeutic massage that focuses on equine athletes which allows them to perform to the best of their ability.

· It helps to reduce the possibility of injury by increasing their range of motion and decreasing muscular restrictions.

· Sports massage differs from other forms of massage in that it focuses on the cause of muscle injury, with the intent of not just relieving muscular pain, but assisting as well in the prevention of (future) injuries to those muscles.

BENEFITS OF EQUINE SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPY

· Improves circulation and as a result, promotes more rapid healing of injuries.

· Enhances muscle tone and increases range of motion.

· Eases muscle spasms and helps prevent further damage.

· Assists in balancing the body by treating the body as a whole, rather than each individual part.

· Reduces inflammation and swelling in the joints, thereby alleviating pain.

· Promotes healing by increasing the flow of nutrients to the muscles and carrying away excessive fluids and toxins.

· Creates a positive effect on the contractual release process of the muscles.  When tension is released, muscles relax.

· Stimulates circulation by “defrosting frozen muscles”, thereby releasing endorphins – natural pain killers.  Improved circulation also increases the excretion of toxins through the skin.

· Relieves tension.

· Lengthens connective tissue and so breaks down/prevents the formation of adhesions and reduces the danger of fibrosis.

· Generally, improves the disposition of the animal.

· Helps maintain the WHOLE body in better physical condition.