Back pain in horses is common and the Longissimus Dorsi muscle is a usual place for this to occur. Equine massage techniques to this area are easy to apply and can help relieve soreness and tension leading to a happy horse.
How to perform Equine Massage techniques on your horses back
Why this muscle is important
The Longissimus dorsi runs along each side of the horse’s spine above the ribs and is one of the largest and longest muscles in your horse’s body. It’s purpose is to extend the spine . The Longissimus costarum lies below it and this muscle is important for lateral flexion of the spine. Both these muscles can be massaged with a compression technique.
Find the Longissimus Dorsi
First find where these muscles start and work first on the longissimus dorsi. Stand next to your horse’s shoulder, slightly facing his head. On the near side of the horse you use your right hand and on the offside you use your left hand to perform the massage. The other hand is placed gently on the horse’s ribs .
Perform compressions
The first equine massage technique to use are compressions. Using the heel of your hand perform compressions, roughly one a second and slowly make your way down the horse’s back. Your fingers should point towards your horse’s head. It is important not to press muscles into the bony areas such as the vertebrae so stay clear of them. Loose muscle will bounce back readily under your hand whereas tight muscles won’t. If you find a tight area, work on this spot for a few minutes before moving on. Do this on both sides. It should take 15/20 minutes.
Stretch
Asking your horse to bring his nose down between his fetlocks is a good way to end the massage session. This can always be achieved with a carrot for bribery.
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Areas covered in UK: Worcestershire and surrounding counties.
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