What is Massage?

Definition of Massage: “Massage is the rubbing, kneading of muscles and joints of the body with the hands.”

The technique of Swedish Massage was developed by Johan Georg Mezger in the 1800’s from the techniques of Per Henrik Ling who adapted the Chinese form of massage therapy Tui na. This more complex system of treatment was honed by Ling and then further by Mezger to four core movements.:

·         Effluerage

·         Petrissage

·         Tapotment

·         Friction

Effluerage

This is the application of long, sweeping rhythmical strokes to the superficial muscle tissue. Using the hands in firm, fluid movements. It is generally the first technique employed as not only does it serve to warm up the muscle but it almost more importantly introduces the horse to the masseur allowing a bond to be created. The masseur is able to use this time to become familiar with the horse and its body structure. Palpating and assessing the body, identifying potential problems and areas to work on. The reaction of the horse to the massage can be assessed and an appropriate course of action decided upon.

The warming of the muscle tissue provides stimulation as well as increasing temperature. The stimulation causes natural endorphins to be released, these aid in pain relief helping the horse to cope with further, deeper treatment. Working in the direction of venous and lymphatic flow circulation is increased improving oxygen delivery to the tissues and carbon dioxide removal. Lymphatic drainage is improved. The rhythmical movements go some way to calm and reassure the horse, relaxing muscle tissue in readiness for the next technique. This is a result of oxytocin produced by the endocrine system which is stimulated by the massage. The hyphothalmus produces the oxytocin which creates a sense of well being and calm in the horse.

Petrissage

This is the next technique usually applied in the sequence of massage . It is compression of the muscle using the fingers and hands. Pressure is applied to a specific location for a period of time and then released. Often lifting and kneading the muscle as required to reach and treat the deeper muscle tissue.

As with effleurage, petrissage further increases blood and oxygen supply to the muscles. Aiding the ability of the body to heal, separating muscle fibres. The increased stimulation of the endocrine system results in the release of hormones to the body. Some being the pain relieving corticosteroids aimed to the point of the injury. This goes some way to reduce any pain being felt by the horse. In combination with the improved circulation the bodies natural healing processes are aided. It is important to remember that the production of corticosteroids to the site oa an injury does inhibit  protective fluids from accessing the site. The body has a system in place allocating hormones and body fluids specific time slots to perform their jobs. Massage can adversely upset this natural pattern.

Tapotment

This is the technique applied to further stimulate the muscle tissue by brisk double handed action of hacking and clapping. Hacking is the use of the sides of the hands (little fingers side onto the body) applied to the muscle in light but brisk, rapid, rhythmical movements, continuously moving over the body – avoiding bony landmarks.

Cupping is applied in the same way but the hand is shaped to form a ‘cup’ (fingers together and arched) so that air is trapped between the hand and the body. A hollow sound should be heard NOT a slap. Tapotment should never be applied to any bony landmarks.

As with effleurage and petrissage, tapotment further stimulates the bodies circulatory, lymphatic, endocrine and nervous systems. Tired muscles are stimulated by the brisk action. It is important at all times to observe the reaction of the horse to the massage as the more ‘aggressive’ the technique the reaction may become adverse.

Observation of the horse and the reaction of the proprioception, ( the horses subconscious sensory reaction to stimuli) can tell you how they are coping with the therapy and whether pressure should be altered, lighter or deeper.

Friction

This is generally the final technique, a deep tissue stimulation where the fingers are used to ‘rub’ across the muscle fibres with the aim of initiating the targeted area in order to break down any adhesions.

Friction differs in that the other techniques work along the muscle fibres, friction works across them. In addition to breaking down adhesions it also serves to mobilize any deep scarring that might exist along with any adherent tissue interfaces.

Friction further increases the function of the body systems and aids the natural healing processes. As with the more focused attention of tapotment , it is imperative to monitor the horse’s reaction and if necessary to stop therapy of an area that is especially painful, causing an adverse reaction. Reverting back to a gentler technique, effleurage would be an appropriate action. It allows contact between horse and masseur to be maintained, reassuring the horse of good intention.