Stretching and Massage
There are several different strokes and techniques -Effleurage
Starts and finishes as a massage it has the following effects:
- Relaxation
- Reduction of tension
- Reduction of pain
- Assistance to venous and lymphatic flow
- Thermal effect
Kneading
- compression of deep circulatory vessels local to and within the tissue
- Stretching of deep scarring
- Pain reduction
- Heamatoma breakdown
Wringing
- Compression of local circulatory vessels
- Stretching of tight skin and underlying tissue
- Stretching improves elasticity within tissue.
Percussion or Hacking
- Vibratory
- MIld stimulation of underlying muscle
- Stimulation of surface vessels
Skin Rolling
- Stretching contracted areas of skin tissue
- Improvement of skin circulation
- Stimulation of skin components
Friction
- Stretching of scar tissue
- Breakdown of adhesions
- Pain reduction / stimulation of acupressure points.
Effects
- Pain relief
- Relaxation
- Improves venous and lymphatic fluid flow
The aim of stretching is to enhance athletic ability and help prevent injury. It is best to stretch after massage when the muscles are warm. All stretches are passive, they should not cause pain and the horse should be relaxed. The stretches should not exceed the normal range of movement.
