EquineBay.com

Massage therapy has long been used to help humans relieve tension and stress. In equine massage, there are also a number of benefits. Massages in horses can result in:

1. Increased circulation-massage helps immensely with blood flow. Rich, oxygenated blood will reach every area of your horse’s body effortlessly.
2. Eliminated waste-fatigued muscles result in toxic buildup in horses bodies. Massage helps to dislodge toxins and hasten their elimination from the body.

3. Increased flexibility-massage helps remove knots from muscles which allows for greater movement

4. Muscle tone

5.  Range of motion

6. Alleviation of pain-knotted muscles that arise from running or jumping can lead to a great deal of pain. The only way to alleviate this pain is to massage the knots out of the horse’s muscles.
7. Stress relief-a horse that has tense, knotted muscles that result in pain can display changes in behavior. Massage therapy can make for a de-stressed, happier animal.

8. Loosens scar tissue

9. Stretches muscle tissue

10. Improves stamina

11. Improves overall disposition

12. Provides comfort and relaxation to muscle injuries and also promotes healing

13. Increases general range of motion

14. Improves circulation to the area being worked

15. Enhances muscle tone

16. Eases muscle spasms

17. Relieves tension

18. Increases synovial fluids

19. Increases flexibility of joints

20. Releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.

21. Reduces swelling and inflammation in joints

22. Lengthens connective tissue, reducing the risk of fibrosis.

23. Stimulates the lymphatic system, which in turn removes the toxins and waste which can lead to tying up

24. Extends good health and overall life of the horse’s athletic career.

25. Balances and maintains the body in better physical condition.