The Science Behind the Session: Massage – The Scientific Basis of an Ancient Art

Some may view equine bodywork or massage with a skeptical eye, questioning the effectiveness of this modality on the improvement of lameness or general quality of performance on their equine counterparts. The advantages of this form of therapy has been proven for humans, but the science for the same proof in terms of its effectiveness on horses is still emerging – but the research is there.

The following is a condensed summary on the findings of G, C, Goats, on the benefits of equine massage and bodywork.

Source:

Goats, G. C., Massage--the scientific basis of an ancient art: Part 2. Physiological and therapeutic effects. British Journal of Sports Medicine 1994; 28:153-156. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bjsm.28.3.153

In this article, Goats reviews the current research in the field of massage therapy in the context of the equine anatomy. The review primarily focuses on the effects of bodywork on four body systems: circulatory and tissue fluids, connective tissue, muscle, and the nervous system.

Circulatory and Tissue Fluids:

Massage increases dilation of the vessels, triggered by a relaxation response. This allows increased blood flow to an area, facilitating healing and improving the performance of that muscle – even if injured. Because dilation responses occur bilaterally in the limbs massage targeted on a particular area on a healthy limb will also dilate the vessels in the same area on the opposite limb. This is particularly useful when treating an area that may be too injured for direct massage.

Arteries (mentioned above) carry nutrient rich blood from the heart to the tissues of the body, and are moved largely by the pumping of the heart. Veins carry nutrient poor blood from the tissues back to the heart, and consequently have less pressure behind them. Because of this, veins rely on body movement in order to return blood to the heart. This mechanism of body movement can be facilitated by massage. This means that areas of poor circulation can be relieved of venous pooling (which can lead to conditions such as thrombosis) with bodywork.

The physical manipulation of bodywork can assist in the movement and drainage of stagnant lymphatic fluid - which causes swelling and oedema. Lymphatic fluids are drained regularly through active movement in healthy horses, so those on stall rest or who are otherwise immobilized may require the extra intervention of bodywork to prevent oedema.

Connective Tissue:

Massage may be a useful tool for preparing for an event, especially when paired with stretching. This improves flexibility, and helps to align connective tissue fibres in a was that is best adapted to the function of the particular joint that the fibres are located in. This occurs by causing minimal tissue damage, and low-level inflammation to encourage quick healing.

Muscle:

Massage is an effective tool for relieving muscle spasms by interrupting the electrical impulse forcing the muscle to spasm, while subsequently encouraging the release of potassium – the primary mechanism in muscle release. Effleurage occurring imminently post-exercise promotes quicker muscle recovery by stimulating blood flow to the muscle and removal of damaged tissue which may build up and result in muscle soreness. In degenerating muscle, effleurage can help slow the loss of muscle power and force-generating potential capacity. Though other forms of degenerative therapy are available, bodywork is a non-invasive modality that can be beneficial in reducing muscle loss in the short term.

Nervous System:

Gentle bodywork on painful areas of the body can temporarily supress the pain receptors in that particular area. More intense bodywork can activate the “descending pain suppression mechanism” by facilitating the release of naturally occurring inhibitory neural transmitters which inhibit the transmission of pain signals over time. More vigorous work means higher release of these neurotransmitters.

Gentle bodywork also promotes relaxation, and triggers the parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous system. This system kicks on when the horse is at rest, feeling safe, and is generally comfortable. This state of being then leads to improved blood flow, reduced muscle tension, relaxation of connective tissue and accelerated tissue healing and regeneration.

Massage has been around for thousands of years, and is still an art form that requires incredible levels of intuition, understanding, listening, and problem solving. Knowing what to do and where/when to do it is something that takes time and practice. The physical effects of massage and bodywork are evident to the layperson, but are now being proven on a scientific-anatomical level. The science behind the massage cannot be understated, and its benefits for your equine companion are endless!