Q&A

How long does a session last?

A session lasts between one to two hours.  Due to the varying time I charge by session and not by time.

My horse is off.  Can I have you look at him without veterinarian approval?

No, your vet needs to clear you horse for massage.  It is always important that your vet rule out any underlying pathologies or diseases.

How often should a horse be massaged?

This all depends on the horse's level of work, his conformation, his health, extent of an injury and so on.  The normal working horse should be done at least once a month as part of a maintenance programme and to assess any training impact as well as head off issues while still subtle.

Does my horse have to be clean before you can work on him?

No just make sure he is dry and free of mud.  Don't use any polishes on him.

How long do I have to wait until I can ride my horse after a session?

Follow up excercises is actually an important component of Sports Massage.  Healthy sound horses can be ridden after a session.  It is best to keep things nice and easy.  Large figures or gentle hacks are best immediately after.  If you don't have time to ride, you need to arrange a 15 minute handwalk or jog within a few hours after the session.


I'm showing my horse this weekend.  This week is my my horses's first massage appointment.  Is this okay?

Once a horse is on a regular massage routine this is ok.  However if this is your horses's first session he needs to get used to his new way of moving and there is a chance he could be slightly sensitive after.  Horses adapt movement for a number of reasons.  His new way of moving could make you feel out of sync at first.

Can you show me some excercises I can do with my horse after the session?

Yes, I can show you some suitable massage moves or stretches you can do in between sessions as part of a tailored home programme.

You offer Sports Massage, Myofascial Release, Healing and Low Level Laser Therapy.  Are these stand alone modalities or do they work together?

They are stand alone therapies that can also work in conjunction with one another depending on what is appropriate for the horse. 

I would also like my horse to see a chiropracter or osteopath.  Is this ok?

I am happy to work alongside other reputable and professional therapists.  Equine Sports Massage and Myofascial Release will complement the work of chiropracters and osteopaths.  Moreover working for the good of the horse often requires being part of a wider team including proper farrier care, training, saddlery and so on.