LAEL COOK EQUINE SPORTSMASSAGE

Tight muscles can be the problem itself or could be the result of protecting an underlying problem. Muscle tightening is the body's way of limiting movement around a compromised tendon, ligament or joint.  The earlier muscle tightening is treated the better the result - otherwise the body will learn to compensate leading to more problems.

And muscle tightening isn't always a result of riding or training - anything repetitive can cause it, such as simply stomping at flies all day, or contorting oneself under the fence for grass, and even cribbing.  Muscles get tight from any sudden quick movement such as slipping in mud or on ice, anything that causes a sudden burst of energy and/or an overstretch of the muscle fibers.  Poor fitting tack (and blankets) is another major factor that can and will cause not only muscle tightening, but also a fair amount of pain and discomfort. Therefore it is very important to look at the whole picture and not just the training and riding piece.

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I believe horses can and will do just about anything we ask of them if two conditions are met:

1) They understand what we are asking. 

2) they are physically able to do it.

They need to clearly know what we want from them AND their physical conditioning and level of training need to support what we are asking. So when a horse resists, or balks at a request, ask yourself if these two conditions have been met.

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Tight muscles can hurt...and they definitely restrict movement and impair athleticism. The Meagher Method of Sportsmassage is a great tool to help restore the horse's, or any athlete's, natural ability and talent.

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*Although Sportsmassage can be helpful as a restorative and preventative tool, it is an alternative therapy and is never a substitute for proper veterinary care and evaluation.

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