Equine massage

Hands-on therapies, including massage, acupressure and joint mobilization, were one of the fastest growing equine therapy categories in the early 1990s.[1]

Equine massage uses the hands, fingers and elbows of the therapist, as well as other tools, including tennis balls and vibrating tools. During the massage, the soft tissue is manipulated with the goal of loosening tight muscles, joints, tendons, scar tissue and edema; increasing blood flow and lymphatic activity; and reducing stress. Equine massage is used in exercise warm-up and post-injury or surgery rehabilitation.[1]

Massage in horses uses many techniques first used for human massage, and it is becoming more common in both competitive equestrian disciplines and pleasure riding. Proponents say that equine massage improves movement and reduces pain and stress responses. Research has shown that massage affects the muscular system at the cellular and fascial levels, as well as physiologic systems. Preliminary research has been conducted that demonstrates possible benefits in exercise recovery, but additional rigorous research is needed to further examine these possibilities.[2]

A 2015 study done at Western Kentucky University entitled: "Horses' Responses to Receiving The Masterson Method® of Integrated Equine Performance Bodywork™ Treatments" documents changes in comfort levels after receiving bodywork. Research documentation included pre and post treatment evaluations, the treatments, owner questionnaires, and cribbing observations. Also, all evaluation and treatment sessions were videotaped with the intent of further analysis for changes in range of motion, flexibility, and comfort level as applicable. This research demonstrated that these bodywork sessions may reduce somatic pain and consequently reduce lameness, aggression and possibly cribbing. At the conclusion of this study each horse had an improved attitude, and their individual health issues were diminished.[3]

A 2013 study of 20 riding horses examined the differences in equine behavior among horses resting, receiving a massage and receiving a treatment of Tellington TTouchTM Method created by Linda Tellington-Jones. The study determined that the horses receiving TTouch had the highest levels of relaxed and positive behaviors, while the resting horses showed signs of boredom and the horses receiving massage therapy tended to move around more and behave in a less relaxed manner. The scientists who conducted the experiment confirmed that further study of various therapy techniques is needed.[4]

In the United States, the legal requirements vary by state and are determined by each state's veterinary board. Presently, some states require veterinary supervision while others do not.[5] Many schools offer certification programs in the areas of animal and companion massage. Some of these schools are approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB).[6] The International Association of Animal Massage & Bodywork (IAAMB) is an association of animal massage and bodywork practitioners, including equine massage therapists.[7]