Latest Articles
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Contractures in Muscle and Fascia
Contractures in muscle and fascia often result from sudden strain, injury, immobility, or chronic strain and can significantly affect movement and function. These contractures occur when the muscle fibers and surrounding fascia lose their elasticity, leading to stiffness, adhesions, and restricted range of motion. Massage, particularly with myofascial release (MFR), offers a powerful method to Read more
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New Research Highlights Horses’ Exceptional Intelligence
Horses are far more intelligent than many people realize, demonstrating cognitive abilities that place them among the smartest animals. Their skills in problem-solving, emotional intelligence, memory, and learning rival those of other highly intelligent species. For instance, horses often showcase strategic thinking by cleverly opening stable doors or untying knots. Their ability to understand and Read more
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Massage Therapy Positively Affects ATP Production and Ion Balance
Massage therapy positively affects ATP production and ion balance by promoting cellular function, circulation, and the natural processes that regulate the body’s internal environment. ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is the primary energy currency of cells, powering essential biological processes such as muscle contractions, nerve signals, ion transport, and protein synthesis. It provides the energy required Read more
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Do You Consider Flatwork to Be “Ridden Bodywork”? Here’s Why You Should
Flatwork isn’t just about schooling movements or “putting in buttons”—it can, and should be, a form of ridden bodywork that strengthens, stretches, and balances your horse’s body. Just as hands-on bodywork helps release tension and improve muscular balance and mobility, thoughtful flatwork encourages correct muscle engagement, flexibility, and postural alignment. How Flatwork Acts as Ridden Read more
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Managing Exercise Resistance in Horses with PSSM2-ER: The Role of Massage, Stretching and Micro-Movements
Exercise resistance in horses with PSSM2-ER (Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy Type 2/*Muscle Integrity Myopathy (MIM), – Exertional Rhabdomyolysis) typically manifests as a reluctance or inability to perform physical activities that require muscle effort, particularly exercise that is more intense or sustained. Here’s how this condition contributes to exercise resistance: 1. Muscle Pain and Stiffness: • Manifestation: Read more
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Exercise Promotes Nerve Growth: Insights from MIT Research
A new study by MIT engineers reveals that exercise benefits not just muscles but also neurons. The research demonstrates that muscle contractions release biochemical signals, known as myokines, which significantly promote nerve growth. When exposed to these signals, neurons grew four times farther compared to neurons without this biochemical influence. Additionally, the study found that Read more
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Myokines: Muscle Messengers That Promote Health
Myokines are signaling proteins and peptides secreted by skeletal muscles during contraction. These molecules play a vital role in communication between muscles and other organs, helping regulate various physiological processes throughout the body. Their release is significantly enhanced by exercise, highlighting their role in promoting overall health. Functions of Myokines 1. Metabolic Regulation: Myokines like Read more
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Groundbreaking Study Links Gut Bacteria in Foals to Long-Term Health & Performance
A pioneering study conducted by researchers at the University of Surrey has uncovered significant links between the gut microbiota of foals at just one month old and their long-term health and athletic performance. Led by Professor Chris Proudman from the university’s veterinary medicine and biosciences departments, the research reveals that the diversity of gut bacteria Read more
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How to Ride a Better Circle
Why are circles important? Riding a circle is a valuable exercise for nearly all equine sports/disciplines. On a circle, essentially a prolonged turn, the inside hind-leg has to come farther under and carry more weight, and the outside hind-leg has to push harder to make the turn. The smaller the circle, the more potent these Read more