Equine MyoFascial Release
Equine Myofascial Release takes therapy to a whole new dimension. Myofascial Release treats not just mankind, but all kinds, horses, dogs, cats, birds, fish, you name it. Equines are such magnificent beings and so full of power and energy that is until their fascia begins to lock them down and restrict their movements just like us. Because Myofascial release is a manual therapy technique that is used to elongate foreshortened connective tissue and muscle it is very effective at treating the fascial system of horses that is no different than ours. The fascia forms a web from head to hoof surrounding every muscle, bone, organ, blood vessel, nerve, and cell. Just like us, when the horse is acutely injured or sustains repeated trauma from training, the fascial system tightens as a protective response.
Over time this can lead to poor muscular biomechanics, altered structural alignment, decreased strength and endurance, and produce overuse muscular compensations. Resultant is decreased performance and functional capacity of the horse. By elongating the fascial system we can restore the efficiency of this system. Therefore, restoring the natural abilities of coordination, strength, and power to the horse. Equine Myofascial Release by a trained John Barnes Myofascial Release Therapist that has are beneficial in creating pain free movement for the horse. Any horse can benefit from myofascial release therapy, especially those with a history of injury or lameness.
Here are some examples of scenarios you may find familiar:
- A history of chronic lameness
- Injuries, or surgeries
- Decreased performance with no diagnosed problem
- Decreased range of motion
- Pain sensitive areas or trigger points
- Irritability or unwillingness to work
Last April, I was very fortunate to have been able to attend the Equine 1 Myofascial Release seminar come within an hour of my home in Greater Tampa Bay, Florida. It was a pivot turning point for myself in regards to deepening my connection to the fascia and the purity of the work. Animals communicate but not with words like we do, so it was truly an experience of the “feeling and sensing” kind. I am so happy to announce that I will be participating in the Equine 2 class as well as the Skills Enhancement for both Equine 1 and 2 this April 9-11 again in my home area. The instructor Tamara Thomas, PT, is amazing and truly vested in the benefits of myofascial release for both horse and therapist and making sure that everyone is kept safe as well.
Here is a link to my mentors article on how Equine Myofascial Release began. I am so please to have gotten to treat so local horses and see first hand how this powerful but gentle work can be life-changing for both animals and mankind.
