August 2001
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EQUINE
MASSAGE—Equine Defined, Princeton, Minnesota
Horses' misbehavior
may indicate pain or tension
RENEE MARIE HOGENDORF
DOGS, CATS, HORSES and many other animals are being treated with massage therapy
much like their human counterparts. It has just been in recent years that equine
massage is being recognized as an integral tool in the care and training of our equine
partners. It is not just for top competition horses, but all horses of all disciplines.
The Europeans have implemented massage therapy for their sport horses for many decades,
and now our Western culture is slowly appreciating how Eastern philosophies, including
massage therapy, can greatly enhance a horse's health, performance, attitude, and
overall sense of well being. It is important to recognize that all of our horses
are athletes in many different ways!
Muscle therapy contributes towards greater flexibility, range of motion, endurance,
attitude, and functioning of all the systems of the body. It also dramatically reduces
the risk of injury during play and competition, and reduces recovery time should
there be one. One other important area of consideration is the so-called behavior
problem, especially appearing suddenly. Oftentimes, the behavior problems are actually
a result of body pain and tension that has gone undetected by the rider or trainer.
In many cases, once the issues have been addressed, the objectionable behavior is
greatly reduced or even eradicated completely. Many of these inappropriately-labeled
crazy or stubborn horses were actually in a great deal of pain and had no other way
to communicate that they were hurting.
Some signs may be bucking, rearing, switching leads, difficulty in picking up feet,
and uneven gaits. It is extremely gratifying to work with a horse that is considered
hopeless, or even on their way to auction, and give them back their physical abilities,
sense of well being, and maybe even a second chance at life.
Other considerations that are extremely important to consider are proper tack fit,
good farrier and dental work, and, of course, your veterinarian. There is still some
resistance to alternative therapies, but in general the attitude is to the positive
side, provided the therapist is well trained and knowledgeable. If you have decided
it is time to call the massage therapist, there are a few things you will want to
consider.
Obviously the first concern is the attitude and intent of the therapist. If you or
your horse is not comfortable with the "bedside manners" of the therapist,
then you have every right to choose another. It is also very important to be familiar
with their experience and credentials. There are many "certification" programs
being offered around the country right now. Although you do receive a "certificate"
from the instructor, there is no guarantee of the level of knowledge the recipient
has other than the fact they attended the certification course, which on the average
is only one week in length. Be aware that is not possible to be well read in the
areas of anatomy, physiology, structural analysis, equine behavior, and body mechanics
in one week. It does however, teach a nice but basic massage, and gives you a wonderful
way to spend time and connect with your equine friend.
Keep in mind, there are times when massage therapy is not recommended, and can even
be detrimental. Massage therapy offers many benefits to both horse and rider. It
is also important that our bodies are in correct alignment so the horse does not
have to compensate for the rider so don't forget that your body's health and wellness
is important too. Our equine partners deserve the best we can give them.
Remember, they are a gift, treat them with love, respect, and kindness and they will
reward you greatly!
Renee Marie Hogendorf, founder of Equine Defined, has made horses part of her
life for over 25 years. She is a graduate of Minneapolis School of Massage, Equissage,
and is certified in reiki and myofascial release therapy. She has also worked extensively
with Linda Tellington-Jones, pioneer of the T-Touch, and cliniced with many top trainers
from both the dressage and Western horse world. Equine Defined offers clinics, individual
treatment, pre- and post-event therapy, private tutoring, and riding instruction
with an emphasis on dressage. Equine Defined is based in Princeton, Minnesota, and
provides services to the Twin Cities and outstate areas. Contact her at www.EquineDefined.com, info@EquineDefined.com, or call 612-621-3383.
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2001 Twin Cities WELLNESS newspaper.
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