EquiLastix

EquiLastix is committed to doing all we can to help each equine client feel its best physically, mentally, and emotionally. Our philosophy is based on a lifetime of experience in the horse industry. We know that a horse who is sound, happy, and willing is likely to have a better quality of life than one that presents with issues in any of these areas. It is our job to discover what the horses can’t tell us about their pain and problems, then provide real solutions that move them toward improved overall wellness. Whether your equine is a companion, a co-worker, or a competitive athlete, we bring this practical, loving approach to each bodywork session.

Equine massage

(which is often coupled with stretching in our sessions) is the application of a variety of hands-on techniques to the soft tissues of the horse with the intent to:

• increase blood and lymphatic circulation;
• improve function of tight or sore muscles, tendons, and joints;
• reduce overall tension, stress points, scar tissue, and muscle spasms;
• enhance muscle tone and fascial elasticity*;
• promote healing; and
• increase range of motion.

Kinesiology taping

is believed “to act on five major physiological compartments of the body: skin, fascia (connective tissue), muscles, joints, and the lymphatic system” (Horse & Hound 14:43-28 February, 2013). Proponents claim that it mechanically decompresses (lifts) the skin above the fascia, stimulating nerves and providing more space for movement of fluids below, with results being:

• reduction of swelling/edema and pain;
• increase in proprioception (the body’s ability to sense how its parts are positioned);
• support of muscle function; and
• stimulation of healthy energy flow along meridians in the body

The stretchy, cotton-based tape we use is soft, breathable and hypoallergenic. It is designed for hair follicle stimulation in horses. It may be left on the horse anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the application.

Craniosacral therapy

the practitioner works with the craniosacral system, which includes the cranium, spinal column, sacrum, central nervous system, and the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF). The CSF circulates through these areas similar to how blood circulates through the body. It is believed that a very light touch can release restrictions in this flow, allowing the system to better regulate itself and promote healing in all areas of the body. Proponents believe this practice is particularly effective in recovery from emotional trauma.

We care for all equine breeds and disciplines, including minis, donkeys, and mules.

What to Expect

Preparation:

Please ensure that your equine is readily available and completely dry (avoid rain, heavy exercise, and bathing) for the session. It is ideal if they can be hand walked for 10 minutes before the session begins. We also recommend you have your preferred electrolyte supplement on hand prior to the session for post-treatment balancing.

Contraindications:

When we CAN’T massage

• If the horse’s temperature is over 102ºF
• Within 72 hours of acute trauma (e.g. torn muscle, hematoma, etc.)
• If animal has or exhibits signs of severe functional nervous disease (such as tetanus)
• When acute rheumatism or arthritis are too painful to permit massage
• If animal has inflammatory condition (e.g. phlebitis)
• When there is an infectious skin or fistulous condition, including fungal infection (such as ringworm or poll-evil)
• If animal has an acute illness or infectious disease, such as strangles, tetanus, and pneumonia.
• acute illness or injury, cancer, pregnancy

When massage MAY need to be restricted/modified or avoided

• If there is an open or bleeding wound anywhere on the body
• If acute nerve problems or nerve irritation is present in a particular area
• During colitis, diarrhea, pregnancy, or hernia
• If equine has chronic rheumatism, arthritis, or calcification

Post-Session Care:

• Electrolytes are typically recommended for 1-3 days after a session to assist in clearing toxins from the body and relieving any soreness.
• Most horses may return to work immediately or with a day or two of R&R after a session. When a more troublesome area is discovered, we will alert you and may recommend that the horse is relieved of work or only lightly worked for a longer period of time to allow for their recovery.