Equine Myofascial Release Therapy

WHAT IS EQUINE MYOFASCIAL RELEASE THERAPY?

Equine Myofascial Release Therapy is a holistic manual therapy that addresses soft tissue fascial restrictions in horses resulting from injuries, trauma, repetitive training, surgery, or poor saddle fit. Its ultimate aim is to release tight, shortened connective tissue, unwind neuromuscular holding patterns, and facilitate structural alignment in the equine athlete. Thus, unlocking the horse’s full potential of strength, endurance, and performance.

WHERE DID EQUINE MYOFASCIAL RELEASE ORIGINATE?

Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR) has been successful in treating musculoskeletal dysfunction in humans for over 60 years. The founder of MFR, John F Barnes PT, has worked with horses and other animals throughout his career. John’s son, Dr. Mark Barnes created the Equine Myofascial Release Therapy program which adheres to the principles and techniques found in The Barnes Myofascial Release Approach®.

Structural Release involves the application of gentle, sustained pressure into the fascial system. This pressure is maintained for a minimum of 5 minutes per technique. Thus creating the structural change that leads to lasting results. Postural imbalances, areas of tightness, and limited range of motion are improved.

Unwinding is the experience of spontaneous, involuntary movements where the body goes back into significant positions related to past trauma. Subsequently, memories and emotions may be brought to the conscious awareness to heal. This innate ability of the body assists the process of letting go of the protective holding patterns that create pain.

Rebounding is a slowly increasing oscillatory motion introduced into the body, thereby generating a fluid wave. This movement is so safe and gentle that it reaches beyond all the body’s defenses. Thus enabling the therapist to access areas not able to be reached by any other means. In fact, every cell of your body can be touched.

WHAT IS THE FASCIAL SYSTEM?

The fascial system is a framework of support and protection for the body and is comprised of fascia (a connective tissue) and ground substance (a watery lubricant). Fascia wraps around every muscle, bone, nerve, internal organ, and most importantly every cell. So, truly fascia supports everything. Normally fascial fibers, lubricated with ground substance, glide freely. However, when injured, it dehydrates becoming as dense and thick as plastic. As a result, restrictions in the fascia lock down the tissues and organs generating chronic pain, misalignment, and dysfunction in the body. As a result of fascial restrictions lines of pull are created to distant areas of the body forming complex patterns of pain and immobility.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Equine sessions begin with an evaluation of the movement of the horse. Then your therapist will perform a standing postural assessment for areas of imbalance, decreased flexibility, and tightness. Prolonged pressure and stretch will be applied to release fascial restrictions. Horses may show signs of fascial release during treatments by licking and chewing, yawning, releasing gas, or having bowel movements.