What to expect during a session

Once arriving at the yard and taking note of the horse's history, I will ask you to get the horse out of the stable so I can begin the static assessment, where I will look at the horse's conformation and posture. I will then ask you to walk and trot the horse a couple of times for the dynamic assessment. In doing so, I will assess the horse's movement and pick up on any abnormailites. 

A thorough palpation will then be carried out, where I will assess the horses tone, texture, temperature, and any tenderness all over their body, from head to tail. In doing so, I will be able to assess the horse's overall condition and pinpoint areas in which I need to focus my treatments. I will also link my findings to the static and dynamic assessment and draw conclusions as to how I think the horse moves during ridden work and be able to cater my treatment to their specific needs.

A range of motion assessment is where I isolate specific joints and test their flexion and extension until I feel the end feel. This is effective in assessing joint fluidity and if there are any restrictions within the joint that could be affecting the horse. 

Following on from my palpation, I will then find specific areas that need a massage. I will use a variety of techniques like effleurage, compressions, tapotement, petrisage, and cross fibre. However, the massage techniques used are very dependent on the overall condition of the muscle and where it is located. 

Once the area is fully warmed up from the massage, a stretch of that specific muscle/area will be performed. This is beneficial in aiding in relaxation and to help further reduce muscle tension and stiffness. 

Kinesiology taping can be applied to a certain area to 

• improve pain 
• improve circulation 
• promote relaxation 
• increase muscle activation 
• release trigger points 
• fascial release 

Once I have completed my treatment, I will then prescribe any exercises I think that the horse would benefit from; this could include 

• Stretching 
• Pole work
• DMEs 
• In-hand work 
• Long reining 

This is just listing a few; the exercises will be based on the horses needs and what I think would benefit them the most based on my assessment and obsevations from the treatment. 

On the same day as your appointment, you will receive a written report of all my observations and notes. This is an excellent way for you to see exactly the areas I have worked on and why, and after a couple of appointments you will be able to see your horses progress!