Frequently Asked Questions

Similarily to how massage therapy works for people, the combination of techniques and procedures used stimulate the muscles increases blood flow and oxygen circulation throughout. This increase of blood flow helps overexerted, tight, or injured muscles to heal and recover. In turn, this can actually relieve pain in the horse's body, and can release painful, knotted "bands" of muscle fibers called "trigger points." The increase in blood flow and release of trigger points is what makes massage therapy so beneficial for horses!

Reduces swelling and inflammation Increases blood f& oxygen flow Helps with competition / performance prep for all athletes Relaxes injured or overused muscles from years of overworking or strenuous exercise Relieves pain, discomfort, or tension Reduces or prevents further muscle spasm/cramping Increases range of motion and Increases lubrication of joints Releases endorphins (body's natural painkillers) into horse's brain Breaks down scar tissue (including bowed tendons Reduces stiffness and soreness for horses suffering from arthritis Peaks athletic performance Calms down horse and improve their mood Reduce post-exercise soreness & stiffness Activates waste and toxin elimination (defecation & urination) Preventative maintenance for ANY horse in ANY level of work

A typical massage session takes a certain amount of time depending on what type of massage that has been requested. Preferably, it is best if the horse is groomed well and fly spray applied to his belly and legs, and tied or held in an environment most comfortable to them, such as their paddock, a barn aisle, or stall. First, I will start any paperwork, have you sign a consent to treat form, and start a brief 5 minute evaluation of the horse by walking around them, seeing what level of touch they're comfortable with, and any pain or swelling that I note. Then, I will proceed with the session. Some horses react differently to the "unfamilar" feeling of massage, and is variable depending on the individual horse as to how soon they respond. I'll move at a rate that is comfortable and allows them the most peace and relaxation, as that is the purpose. Throughout, I will pay close attention to any signs of "release" that they show me--this means the massage is working, the endorphins are being released into their brain, pain / tension is being relieved, and that they are relaxing. These signs include licking, chewing, yawning, shaking and/or dropping their head, drooping ears, blinking, leg cocked, flatulence, urination, and defecation. Then, once the session is over, I will complete the necessary paperwork, give both the client and myself a copy of all papers, and then discuss with the client any treatment plans or concerns they may have.

No. I recommend that if there's a health issue, both diagnosed or undiagnosed, to have them be cleared by a veterinarian first to rule out and/or ensure that massage will be an acceptable modality to perform on them. Some examples of this may be navicular disease, laminits, founder, or unidentified lameness or injury. Massage can exacerbate certain health problems, so it is required that any horse with an unknown problem be checked out by another equine professional first. I am an equine massage therapist, not a veterinarian; so I am not able to diagnose a problem. I can give you my honest opinion and recommend suggestions, but cannot diagnose in place of a veterinarian.

No. Massgae therapy is a very beneficial modality with the purpose of increasing wellness throughout the horse's body and all five of their body's systems: Lymphatic, Nervous, Circulatory, Skin, & Muscular Systems. Massage is not to be used as a cure-all, but a supplemental alternative health practice to be used in combination with proper and routine veterinary, chiropractic, and farrier care--not a substitute.

FEVER (Over 102 F) When a horse is fighting an infection throughout their body, their metabolism rapidly increases, and if massaged, a horse's condition could be worsened. So, if on a call I suspect a horse has a fever or a fever is confirmed, I will not be able to work on the horse at that time. SHOCK When a horse goes into shock, their blood pressure drops, just like it does during a massage. Shock also causes the body to start shutting down major systems that are vital for the horse's survival. So, if on a call I suspect a horse is in shock and if further steps are taken to confirm that, I will not massage the horse at that time. CANCER Cancer cells often are spread to other parts of the body, so massage may be detrimental to that condition. If your horse has any type of cancer, acknowledge that on the consent to treat form you will fill out for your horse, and ALWAYS be totally honest when describing your horse's previous and current medical conditions. OTHER Other contraindications where we will refuse to massage at that time includes but not limited to: Colic Bacterial infection (Strangles, Potomac Horse Fever, Tetanus, etc.) Viral infections (Rhinovirus, Equine Influenza, etc.) Open wounds Lethargy, dehydration, heavy medications such as bute, other painkillers, etc. Lice, ringworm, mange, other contagious skin ailments Hematoma or any other acute trauma Severe muscle injury Any undiagnosed conditions such as lameness, lumps, swelling, etc. that have not been examined by a veterinarian

The price varies depending on the type of massage and service requested. A complete list of prices and services are found here. In addition to the service price, I charge an additional $0.50 per mile for the barn call fee if you are further than 30 miles away from Iola, WI.