Different gaits, different spine movements
The spine moves very differently in each of the three basic gaits. Understanding these differences can help you make better training decisions.
Bodywork for difficult horses
Some horses have a hard time relaxing when being touched and these are often the very horses that need bodywork the most. In these cases, patience, time and empathy go a long way.
The often-overlooked latissimus dorsi
A tight latissimus dorsi can have a negative impact on the range of motion of the spine, as well as the front leg, so it makes sense to keep an eye on this often-overlooked muscle.
Sleep deprivation in horses – strategy
Fixing sleep problems can sometimes be a simple matter, but other times it takes a multi-pronged and patient approach. Here is how to start.
Sleep deprivation in horses – red flags
While not an exhaustive list, here are some red flags to look out for when thinking about sleep deprivation in horses.
Sleep deprivation in horses – the basics
Sleep deprivation in horses is more common than people realise. Here are some basics that we need to know about this subject.
Test the thoracic sling
The thoracic sling is an important area. Here are two things you can do to test how well this area is working in your horse.
In bodywork, intention is the secret weapon
Knowledge is powerful, but intention is what gives results. This doesn’t just apply to bodywork – it applies to all areas of working with horses. If you’re sceptical, give it a try.
Five things you can do with your horse when it's too hot to work properly
Summer heat is often a big obstacle for serious training. Here are some ideas on how to spend quality time with your horse despite the heat.
Don't ignore the horse's head
Many things that negatively impact the horse’s performance can have their cause in the head and poll. Horses are big animals, but their heads are very sensitive, so it’s very important to treat this area gently and with respect.
Three signs the training is too hard
Overtraining can lead to injuries and chronic issues, so it’s important we learn to recognise some early signs that the training might be a bit too hard for our horse.
Just because they can compete, doesn't mean they should
Poor performance can be a very subtle symptom that many riders fail to notice. Here are some things to look out for, especially as your horse progresses to higher levels.
Peeling the onion can be very tricky
As bodyworkers we often need to do detective work. Because the issue very often didn't start where the most obvious problem seems to be, we need to figure out what the restriction is protecting and address the deeper issue.
Are hypermobile horses more anxious?
There is a link between hypermobility and nervous system dysregulation in humans. While there are no studies supporting it, it could be that the same goes for horses too. What are the implications of that?
Lameness is rarely simple
Chronic lameness never stays localised in one limb only – it spreads. In order to battle this frustrating foe, we need to look at the whole picture.
The tricky balance of movement and rest
When dealing with a minor injury, ensuring the right amount of movement is crucial. How to determine what the right amount is and how to get to it, can sometimes be tricky to navigate.
Three reasons to focus on thoracic sling development
The thoracic sling is a key component in sound movement. Here are three reasons why you need to pay attention to it – regardless of breed, discipline or level of riding.
Muscles don't lie
Muscles tell us a story of how the horse’s body responds to load. Here are some red flags to look out for.
The rehab rollercoaster
Rehabbing a horse can be very tricky, especially after a lifetime of chronic tension and dysfunction. Here are some things to keep in mind to make the process easier.
Relieving back pain during chronic lameness
Chronic distal limb lameness causes the horse to adjust how he uses his entire body, causing tightness and restriction in the back. Here are a few simple massage techniques you can use to help your horse.