I once read a study by researchers attempting to find a correlation between the feeling of being stiff and its relationship to the body actually being physically “stiff”. Surprisingly, they found zero correlation between the two. In fact, the people who reported feeling stiff were actually more flexible than those who didn’t.
The study concluded by proposing that the feeling of being stiff might be the nervous system’s way of prompting the body to stretch and move more as a way of maintaining flexibility and a full range of motion.
Proprioception refers to the perception or awareness of the position and movement of the body. It also encompasses the recognition of physical muscle tension or movement restrictions and the individual’s personal perception of these sensations.
Proprioception is partially shaped through experiences. If a person, or a horse, becomes accustomed to a particular posture or limited range of motion, they may develop a perception of those sensations as ‘normal,’ even if they deviate from optimal or healthy functioning. This normalization of sensations can also lead to reduced sensitivity to changes or abnormalities in sensations. Over time, habitual patterns of posture, movement, and proprioception sensations can reshape a body’s’ baseline perception of “normal”. Limited movement that used to make the horse feel stiff, prompting movement and pandiculations, no longer does.
There are two sides to this change in perception. One is sensory, as we’ve discussed. The other is physical. When a certain movement or motion is not practiced regularly the body may no longer opt to support it. A steady creep of prolonged tension may become a physical restriction as tissues adapt to the decreased range of motion being used.
This can include various changes such as:
- Muscle and joint stiffness and tightness, as they lose their ability to move freely.
- Reduced strength and endurance.
- The formation of adhesions between muscle fibers and fascial fibers.
- Decreased elasticity in tendons and ligaments.
- Increased risk of injury as fibers lose resilience.
- Poor posture, as muscles become imbalanced and unable to support the body properly.
- Reduced circulation. Lack of movement can impair blood flow, leading to decreased oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues and organs.
- Joint degeneration: Prolonged lack of movement can contribute to joint degeneration and osteoarthritis.
- Potential lymph stagnation or inflammation in affected areas.
Regular movement and physical activity is essential for preserving mobility, flexibility, and overall wellness.
In other words: Use it, or lose it.
Fortunately, these changes in baseline perceptions don’t have to be permanent, and neither do the physical restrictions they can lead to. Introducing new sensations and movements can remind the body of what it was once capable of.
Regular exercise can enhance circulation, build strength, improve range of motion, and heighten proprioception awareness, thereby enhancing the body’s ability to perceive sensations such as stiffness, position, and movements. It’s important to consult an expert to create an exercise plan tailored to your horse’s specific needs and abilities.
Massage is another fantastic way to help your horse recover movement, physical awareness and resilience. Massage eases sore, tight muscles, loosens fascia and joints, and releases endorphins that act as natural analgesics to relieve discomfort. It also stimulates weak and inactive muscles, aiding in their return to action.
Massage techniques with varying frequencies, amplitudes, and intensities stimulate additional proprioceptive information, improving self-awareness, coordination, and balance for safer movement.
Massage increases blood flow to muscles, joints, and other tissues, bringing nutrients and flushing out toxins to optimize healing, promote healthy muscle development, and reduce inflammation.
Consistently encouraging your horse to utilize their full range of motion through intentional movement is important it enhances performance and resilience, and also supports their overall health and well-being as they age. Remember, it’s never too late to prioritize your horse’s health and ensure they live their best life possible. Massage therapy is an effective tool in this endeavor, aiding in the maintenance or improvement of range of motion, enhancing proprioception, and bolstering injury resilience.
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