Movement Assessment, Body Reading
and Massage
Please choose from which option fits your horse's needs best. It is strongly recommended that first time clients book a full movement assessment and body reading but it is not required.
What is a Movement Assessment and why is it helpful?
Your horse's specific movement patterns are carefully watched for any abnormalities. Gaits will be analyzed for any signs of pain, compensation, or lameness. Deviations from normal movement patterns can help identify areas of weakness and pain. Many abnormal movement patterns indicate specific problem areas. This is especially helpful if the owner is unsure of where any soreness or weakness is originating from.
*There are times when it may be impossible or unsafe to lunge a horse in which case the movement evaluation will be based on hand walking and trotting or gaiting if possible.
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What is a Body Reading and why is it helpful?
Your horse's body confirmation is analyzed with the focus being on anatomical balance NOT breed standards. Any discrepancies are looked at with consideration given to your horse's age, gender, past or present injuries, riding or work discipline, and hoof condition. Any abnormality to a horse's confirmation will help point out areas of muscle tightness and imbalance as well as possible joint or skeletal issues.
What types of Massage are offered and why is it helpful?
There are several different types of massage that can be performed on your horse. Just a few are Relaxation Massage, Sports Massage, Injury Rehabilitation Massage, Structural Massage, and Injury Prevention and Maintenance Massage. Each type can play a role in keeping a horse physically healthy in different ways. While the aforementioned types can have specific applications, massage in general is used to decrease pain and discomfort caused by tension, stiffness, and tightness in the muscles. Massage aids in the healing process of injured muscles. Massage can help return an injured horse or inactive horse to full potential or full function. Finally, massage can help prevent injuries from occurring or re-occuring.
*There may be times when it is inappropriate for a horse to receive massage therapy or when it could in fact be detrimental to their health. Please understand that the practitioner has the right to refuse to administer treatment if it will be harmful to an animal.
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