EQUINE MASSAGE THERAPY CAN BENEFIT YOUR HORSE

Equine massage may conjure up images of pampered show horses being rubbed down after intensive training sessions, but this therapy can do so much more than that. In fact, there is a multitude of medical conditions that can benefit from massage. Here are some basic techniques that can be applied:

  • BASIC MASSAGE: These techniques involve applying firm pressure to muscles and other underlying soft tissues such as the fascia, or connective tissue surrounding muscles. The muscles are typically warmed up prior to deeper work; strokes used might include percussion (gentle tapping to warm the muscles and encourage blood flow), effleurage (light to firm stroking), and compression (application of deeper pressure).
  • TRIGGER-POINT THERAPY: Trigger points, often described as “muscle knots,” are sensitive spots causing pain in soft tissues. Although the precise underlying cause of these painful points isn’t known, many experts believe they’re likely associated with a small patch of contracted muscle. This chronic contraction causes constricted blood supply to the area, a build-up of lactic acid, and an eventual vicious circle of spasm and pain. The massage therapist applies direct pressure to relax the muscle, release lactic acid, relieve spasms, encourage blood flow, and improve the oxygen supply.

  • MYOFASCIAL RELEASE (MFR): Fascia is a dense, strong tissue that surrounds and supports structures in the body, including muscle, bone, nerves, and the internal organs. Myofascia refers specifically to fascia surrounding the musculoskeletal system. In a normal horse, fascia provides support, but it’s relaxed and soft, causing no restrictions to muscular contraction or joint movement. Fascia can cause problems, however, when it becomes tight and restrictive as the result of trauma, disease, or plain old hard work. A trained therapist will recognize these areas of restriction and employ stretching and manipulation techniques to release this tension and restore free movement.

  • MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE (MLD): Edema, or fluid accumulation in the tissues, is a common problem that can occur as the result of a variety of issues, ranging from an allergic reaction to a response to injury or simple inactivity. In order for the edema to resolve, the fluid must be taken up by the lymphatic system. The therapist will begin by applying a series of massage strokes that encourage circulation in the tissues, followed by a specialized system of manipulations designed to mobilize that excess fluid and encourage it to travel to the lymphatic vessels so it can be cleared.
  • STRETCHING: Many different types of stretching can be beneficial for increasing flexibility and joint range-of-motion, or for improving the overall health of the musculoskeletal system.

SERVICE AREA

Shelby’s services cover the following areas:

  • Connecticut
  • Western and Central Massachusetts
  • Southern New Hampshire
  • Southern Vermont

For information about the scope and cost of treatment options or other particulars, please contact Shelby for details — you may use the convenient contact form below, or phone Shelby at (518) 947-4866. Depending on travel distance, there may be a modest mileage fee added.

ABOUT SHELBY

Shelby Minshell has been a lifelong horse person.

She grew up in upstate New York, an active member of 4-H; this is where her passion for equines flourished. Shelby’s childhood horse, an Arabian named Cognac lived to the old age of 40. Before his passing in 2020, massage was a treatment Cognac really enjoyed.

Fascinated by the benefits of massage on her senior horse, Shelby decided this was a path worth pursuing. She attended and received her 200 hour equine massage certification from Bancroft School of Massage Therapy, and has been practicing ever since.

NICE THINGS PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US...

I met Shelby a few years ago, and know her as a kind, compassionate and attentive person in general. When she decided to become certified in Equine Massage I knew she would be amazing, and I booked her immediately to work on my beloved 32 year old gelding Aladdin (pictured on right). She was professional but warm, listened well, and was clear about what she found as she nearly put him into a trance during the hour of bodywork. I’ll continue using her services for as long as my guy is around.

ALDEN BEANE, Great Barrington MA
Shelby and Aladdin

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    Shelby and Dancer