1. Up to 70% of muscle fibers do not span the complete distance between insertion and origin; however, as the endomysium (the thin layer of connective tissue or fascia that surrounds each individual muscle fiber within a muscle) of adjacent fibers are structurally connected, they can still transmit force.
2. During an isometric contraction, muscle fibers temporarily stiffen without undergoing a significant change in length, resulting in the generation of strength without movement. Isometric contractions are essential for maintaining posture and creating stability.
3. Muscles develop a lasting molecular “memory” of past resistance exercises that helps them bounce back from long periods of inactivity.
4. A myofascial kinetic chain (MKC) refers to an interconnected system (chain) of muscles (myo) and fascia (fascial) that work together as a coordinated unit to produce movement (kinetic).
5. Generally, noticeable muscle development can be observed over weeks to months with consistent, appropriate training and nutrition. However, the complete growth of new muscle fibers may take several months or years.
6. A typical muscle is serviced by anywhere between 50 and 200 (or more) branches of specialized nerve cells called motor neurons which plug directly into the skeletal muscle.
7. By contracting and generating tension in the visceral fascia, muscles can minimize excessive organ movement or displacement, and provide stability to the organs during activities like trotting, cantering, spooking and jumping.
8. The Superficial Dorsal Line, an MKC that follows the topline of the horse from poll to hind foot, contains a high percentage of Type I fibers, characterized by endurance and resistance to fatigue. The Superficial Ventral Line, an MKC that follows the underside of the horse from head to hind hoof, contains a high percentage of Type II fibers, which are associated with quick and powerful muscle contractions. These adaptations speak to the different functional purposes of each of these anatomical lines.
9. While nerves can actively signal muscle contraction, relaxation of the muscle comes the absence or a reduction of those signals rather than an active signal instructing the muscle to relax. Nerves can’t send a specific signal telling the muscle to relax and release.
10. Only 70% of the force generated by a muscle acts on the origin and insertion of the muscle. The other 30% is transmitted laterally through fascia, to other muscles and fascial layers.
11. Muscle growth is stimulated by microscopic damage incurred during physical activity. This damage triggers a process of repair and adaptation, leading to the development of larger and stronger muscle fibers.
12. New research indicates that the stiffness and discomfort commonly linked with DOMS may originate from a combination of micro-damage to the muscle spindles (stretch receptors located within skeletal muscle bellies) and reactions in the surrounding myofascia, rather than damage to the muscle fibers.
13. Overly tight muscles and knots can constrict around capillaries and nerves, impeding effective communication, cutting off circulation, and causing pain.
14. Muscles will activate in the way that they can, and not always in the way that they should.
15. Soft tissue manipulation, using massage with myofascial techniques, is one of the most effective musculoskeletal therapy available to help you keep your horse working and feeling his best.
Benefits of massage with myofascial release include improved exercise recovery and tolerance, improved alignment, increased range of motion, stronger muscles, more efficient energy use, increased stride length, reduced discomfort, enhanced relaxation and well-being and improved overall performance. Leaving it out of your regular care and exercise routine leaves a huge hole and a missed opportunity.
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