Latest Articles
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What Are Myotomes And Dermotomes and Why Might They Be Important To Bodyworkers?
A myotome and a dermatome are both regions of the body that correspond to specific spinal nerve roots, but they differ in terms of the types of structures they innervate. 1. Myotome: Definition: A myotome is a group of muscles that are innervated by the motor fibers of a single spinal nerve root. The exact Read more
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Putting Numbers to the Forces on a Horse’s Limbs Across Different Gaits
When horses move, each step places varying levels of force on their limbs, influenced by their gait, speed, and the surface they’re moving on. This force impacts their muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones—playing a significant role in their performance and susceptibility to injury. Let’s break down the approximate forces and duration of contact each foot Read more
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Selenium in Equine Nutrition
Selenium is an important antioxidant that supports equine health by aiding metabolism, growth, and reproductive function. It helps neutralize free radicals and strengthens the immune system, aiding the body’s defense against infection. However, due to its narrow safety range, both selenium deficiency and toxicity are concerns for horse owners. Deficiency Risks and Symptoms Selenium deficiency Read more
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Breaking the Cycle of Muscle Tension: How Massage and Myofascial Release Restore Optimal Function
Muscles receive signals to contract from the nervous system, but they do not receive direct signals to relax. When a motor neuron releases the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, it stimulates the muscle to contract. Relaxation occurs only when this contraction signal stops, allowing the muscle to return to its resting state. This process relies on several factors: Read more
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Supporting Joint Health: The Role of Movement and Massage in Nourishing Cartilage
Articular cartilage in joints, which is not part of the blood circulation system, receives nutrients through the movement of the joint, which promotes the nourishing flow of synovial fluid. Cartilage relies on the diffusion of nutrients from synovial fluid, which is stimulated by the movement of the joint. The compression and release of the cartilage Read more
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Enhancing Equine Performance Through Targeted Movement and Training for the Nervous, Fascial, and Muscular Systems
When it comes to maintaining a horse’s overall health, performance, and well-being, understanding the unique needs of the nervous, fascial, and muscular systems is key. These systems each respond differently to various types of movement, tension, and training, so a comprehensive approach is necessary to optimize results. Let’s explore how each system benefits from specific Read more
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The Structural and Metabolic Functions of Muscles in Horses
Muscles’ Effect on Structural Functions in Horses 1.Balance: Muscles maintain stability by adjusting tension to help the body remain upright and steady. Postural muscles and those around joints help control small movements and prevent falls or imbalances. 2. Posture: Muscles support the skeleton by maintaining alignment and positioning of the body. Core muscles, along with Read more
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How Horses Store Energy in Their Muscles
Equine muscles store energy primarily in the form of glycogen, which is a polysaccharide made up of glucose molecules. This stored glycogen is a key energy reserve that can be quickly mobilized during physical activity. Here’s how energy storage works in horse muscles: 1. Glycogen Storage 2. Energy Mobilization 3. Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Metabolism 4. Read more
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Pandiculation vs. Traditional Stretching: Enhancing Flexibility and Movement in Horses
We all know the benefits of stretching for improving flexibility and maintaining muscle health, but not all stretching is created equal. For horses, two primary forms of stretching—traditional stretching and pandiculation—offer different benefits based on how they affect the body. Understanding these differences can help you choose the best approach for your horse’s physical health. Read more