Latest Articles
-
What are Mechanorecptors?
Mechanoreceptors are a type of sensory receptor that respond to mechanical stimuli, such as pressure, touch, vibration, and stretching. They play a fundamental role in the body’s ability to detect and perceive physical sensations related to touch, pressure, proprioception (awareness of body position), and mechanical forces. Mechanoreceptors are found in various tissues throughout the body,… Read more
-
Learn About Superficial Fascia
Superficial fascia is a layer of connective tissue that lies just beneath the skin on a horse. It is composed of a network of fibrous tissue, adipose (fat) cells, and blood vessels, and it serves to connect the skin to the underlying muscles and other structures. The superficial fascia is particularly important because it helps… Read more
-
Temperature of Water Affects How Much Horses Drink
According to the AAEP the ideal water temperature for maximum palatability is between 45-65°F. Horses tend to consume less water if it falls outside this range, making your horse prone to dehydration, poor digestion efficiency, and intestinal impactions. Studies also show that horses tend to drink most of their water (as much as 82%) during… Read more
-
Decrease Stiffness with a Warmup Walk
A 15-20 minute walk warmup at the beginning of your ride decreases stiffness of the tendons, muscles and other soft tissues. A allows your horse to withstand higher loads and minimizes the chance of injury. It also gives you time to warm your own body up so you can be a better athlete, too. Need… Read more
-
Why Post Operative Massage for Equines can Work Wonders
If your horse has been injured, or has had to undergo surgery, integrating massage into their post-operative or post-injury care routine could offer significant health benefits. Here’s why: Specialized Training: Equine massage therapists undergo specialized training to address soft tissues, aiming to enhance circulation, lymph drainage, and release endorphins. These effects contribute to healing as… Read more
-
Coronet Band Kinesiology Tape (KT) Application
1 application can serve 2 separate purposes 1. To improve circulation. This simple taping can help improve circulation to the coronary band and bulb area. Properly applied KT tape may improve growth and reduce pain in the area through improved circulation. 2. To improve proprioception (perception or spatial awareness of self) which can improve agility,… Read more
-
Massage Speeds Muscle Recovery
When your horse has a challenging exercise session, the fibers in their muscles micro tear – it’s the healing of these micro tears that causes muscles to grow. These micro tears also cause the soreness and inflammation your horse experiences after a tough work. Massage will help your horse’s muscles heal from these micro tears… Read more
-
Body Confidence & Equine Massage
Your horse’s self-confidence in its own body and ability to perform athletic activities will be reduced by physical discomfort, pain and muscular tension caused by muscle knots and fascial restrictions which reduce range of motion and interfere with muscle function, strength, balance, coordination and accurate proprioception. If you notice your horse is backing off from… Read more
-
22 Interesting Facts About the Equine Lymphatic System
Here are 22 interesting facts about the equine lymphatic system: Lymph needs to be flowing for the horse to be healthy. Lymphatic drainage massage helps stimulate the movement of stagnant lymph and enhance the performance and natural flow of the lymphatic system. Lymphatic drainage massage can help by reducing stocking up, improving recovery after strenuous… Read more