When a horse falls over, it can have various effects on its muscles and overall well-being. The extent of the impact depends on factors such as the severity of the fall, the horse’s age, fitness level, and any pre-existing conditions. Here are some general ways falling over can affect a horse’s muscles:

Strain and Bruising➡️The impact of the fall can cause muscle strain and bruising. The force of hitting the ground can lead to localized damage in the muscles.

Stiffness and Soreness➡️After a fall, a horse may experience stiffness and soreness in its muscles. This can affect its range of motion and overall comfort.

Inflammation➡️Injuries from a fall can lead to inflammation in the affected muscles. Inflammation is part of the body’s natural healing process, but excessive inflammation can contribute to pain and discomfort.

Compensatory Issues➡️A horse may alter its movement patterns to compensate for injuries or discomfort. This compensation can lead to additional strain on other muscle groups, creating a cascade of musculoskeletal issues.

Equine massage therapy can be beneficial in several ways following a fall:

Promoting Circulation➡️Massage helps improve blood circulation, which, in turn, facilitates the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues. This can aid in the healing process.

Reducing Muscle Tension➡️Massage can help release muscle tension and promote relaxation. This is particularly important after a fall when muscles may be contracted and sore. Enhancing

Range of Motion➡️By working on muscles and soft tissues, massage can help improve a horse’s flexibility and range of motion. This can be crucial in preventing stiffness and maintaining overall musculoskeletal health.

Alleviating Pain➡️Massage therapy can help alleviate pain by reducing muscle spasms and promoting the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Addressing Compensation

Compensatory Patterns➡️A skilled equine massage therapist can identify and address compensatory issues. By treating both the injured and compensating areas, the therapist helps the horse restore balanced movement.

January 4, 2024
-Melissa Caccamo

#equineinjury #equinerehabilitation #certifiedreliablesmart
#equineinjury #equinerehabilitation #certifiedreliablesmart