Areas of the body
Head and Poll
Here I work to release tension in the poll and jaw. The poll is an area of several muscular attachments, these muscles lift the head as well as allow for lateral flexion. The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the skull. The masseter muscles here can become tight causing headaches for the horse. I work to loosen these muscles and release tension allowing the horse to be more supple,
Neck
The cervical spine is made up of seven vertebrae. The muscles of the neck are designed to lift and lower the head and tilt it side to side. Massage in this area helps to remove restrictions to allow the head and neck to move with ease.
Shoulder
My goal in the area of the shoulder is to soften the restrictions in the muscles allowing them to relax and return to a natural elasticity. I wish to restore unrestricted range of motion of the scapula and forelimb. My work here will also include the pectoral and neck muscles, as these all work together to allow for the full range of movement of the front leg.
Back
When massaging the back I am working to loosen and soften any restrictions that may inhibit natural movement and self-carriage. The goal is to lengthen the vertebral column to allow the spine to rest back to its natural position. In the ridden horse the weight of the rider causes the spine to move down and forward. I use massage to help give the horse the ability to lengthen, stretch and lift the back in alignment.
Withers
The withers are an important part of the equine anatomy, this is where many muscles of the back, shoulders, and neck meet and connect. Massage in this area eases restrictions to allow energy to flow freely to the hind end and to the poll. The withers are made up of thoracic vertebrae and the unique anatomy of these vertebrae are what enable the horse to carry the weight of the rider.
Hindquarters
The hindquarters are the motor of the horse, the muscles of the hind leg propel the horse forward. This is a complex structure that connects the hind limb to the pelvis. In order to function properly to push the horse forward with power, balance and straightness the joints must be able to move freely. Massage in this area focuses on releasing tightness in the muscles of the sacrum, hip, and leg.
Stretching
Stretching is a gentle process that is accomplished with the horse. The horse is asked to stretch the front legs to help increase range of motion in the shoulder. The neck is stretched by asking the horse to bend to the left and right. The horse is never forced to turn the head, rather they are encouraged to relax and allow the natural flexion of the muscles bend the neck. The horse is finally encouraged to stretch the muscles of the sacrum, by rounding the hind end.