Equine Massage Therapy...

Sadiemay

Sadiemay

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10 September 2010
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Hi,

I was thinkinig of treating my girl to an equine massage after reading the potential benefits.

However at 23 years old she is fully retired. I can not see any obvious muscular problems myself and the vet didnt pick up anything a couple of weeks ago when she was fully examined and health checked.

So my question is, is equine massage only of benefit to working/competition horses or will oldies benefit too? I am thinking it can only do good surely, just like when we have a nice massage :confused:

But a a small part of me is a little worried it may do more harm then good and aggrevate something with the pulling and stretching. And if it aint broke dont fix it kind thing....

Anyone have an yay or nay opinions on the benefits of equine massage in general?

Thanks!
Sadiemay
 
As an equine shiatsu practitioner, I would say that your horse would definitely benefit. Massages help with stress, circulation, sore muscles etc. Just think about how nice it is for you to have a general massage, even if you don't need one. Also, as you get older you get aches and pains, and things like arthritis might be making an appearance. All of this can be assisted by massage.

No massage therapy should do any harm - please note that before you get any massage done, you should check in with your vet first. There are many types of massage therapy, and many are similar in terms of the type of treatment they might give, but the theory behind them are different.

I personally would look more to a gentle massage therapy for an older horse rather than something like a sports massage, but sports massage therapists would probably adapt what they do for a horsee like yours compared to a young competitive horse.

I hope you do get her a massage, I am sure you will enjoy it.

B
 
Yes, it can be very beneficial for older equines - especially because they tend to be stiff/arthritic. A friend of mine does sports massage and many of her clients are older or retired horses or ponies.
 
My horses get regular massage and I find it very informative, the lady that massages my horses is fab and discusses her findings with me in great detail, it gives me a heads up to any problems that may be brewing and the horses physically change in front of my eyes, they seem softer and more relaxed.
I'd defo do it if I was you, it might give you an idea as to how much mobility or lack of it she still has and is really good for the circulation, and I think i'd get a bit of a kick out of giving an old friend a bit of pampering. x
 
I have a know a great ESMT (actually she is fully qualified for people and dogs too - so I too have benefited several times from treatments). You will need to get veterinary permission (I would be wary of any ESMT that doesn't insist on that). But yes oldies can greatly benefit from a massage due to the increased circulation. Anyway hope you find a good one and if you want the name/number of mine PM (I'm from Surrey too so know she will cover your area).
 
A Gentle massage will help the circulation and general well being of any horse / animal

From foals to the elderly veteran all will benefit from a massage.

As already said you should get permission from your vet.

Drop me a PM I maybe able to help.
 
Thanks so much guys for your replies.

After reading your responses I have decided I am going to book Sadie a massage :) She suffers from a touch of arthritis so I hope this will be of benefit in that area as well as making her feel good all over.

If it goes well and she enjoys it then its something I will do regularly. She deserves a little treat now and then :o

Sadiemay
 
Hi Paluineh,

I am in the Cherstey area (J11 of M25) I have to admit I have never thought about doing a course to learn the skills myself. But I would be interested in hearing more about it.

Do you have a website I can take a look at, PM me if you prefer.


Dear Allover,

Thanks alot for the link, I have found a couple of therapists in the area on that website :)

Sadiemay
 
Oh the ponies love the massager!!!! They get excited when she turns up!!!! Literally fight to be first!!!!!

The boys love the massage so much they get 'untidy underneath' ;-)

They always yawn and chill and always move towards the massage where they want more work doing!

Very happy ponies! One is an oap as well.
 
Thanks for your reply Foraday.

That sounds so cute :)

Does anyone know roughly how long a massage session lasts?

My girl is clipped but in need of doing again in a week or so. Should I clip her again beforehand, will it make it easier for the therapist?

And also do they use any oils or anything? Will I need to wash her down afteerwards...if so I am a bit reluctant as its sooo cold!

Sadiemay
 
Normally they dont use oils, clipped or unclipped is ok as long as she is clean(ie no mud) she wont need a bath beforehand so dont worry!!! I have never come across a horse that does not love a good massage yet. :)
 
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