Do you ever just feel uncomfortable? Your neck is tight, and your back is sore, and you know it is about time for a massage. If you have experienced a recent injury, all that pain and discomfort may result from a fibrous adhesion.
Like you, your horse can develop adhesions, too.
Unlike you, however, your horse cannot go and make an appointment with a massage therapist. Instead, he relies on you to watch out for him and get him help when you notice him struggling.
What does it mean when your horse has an adhesion?
The reasons why a horse, like a human, may develop fibrous muscle adhesions are varied and include trauma, and repetitive stress injuries, which are among the most common offenders.
Adhesions are the body's way of repairing itself.
The process of inflammation can organize into the formation of scar tissue. When this happens, adhesions are created that will inhibit the normal flexion and gliding of muscle and soft tissue. This inhibitory effect will cause irritation and increased inflammation, which creates a vicious cycle.
Video by Integrative Diagnosis discussing what a muscle adhesion is and how it is formed.
Causes of soft-tissue adhesions.
As stated before, there is a wide range of causes for adhesions. Injury caused by trauma is one of the easier to spot. If a horse is involved in any accident that causes trauma to the body, he will probably develop an adhesion.
Additionally, look out for the smaller microtraumas that could affect your horse. A poorly fitted saddle and shoes that do not fit adequately are just two reasons why your horse may experience repetitive stress injuries. Untreated, adhesions can form in the muscles as the body attempts to repair the damage.
Symptoms your horse has an adhesion.
Unlike with people, horses can't clearly state that they are in pain, nor pinpoint the exact location of their discomfort. This is why it is important to be alert to changes in your horse's temperament and body movements.
Some common signs of adhesion include:
Change in gait due to muscular stiffness
Reduced range of motion
Swelling of the joints
Muscular spasms when touched
What can you do when you suspect your horse has an adhesion?
The most important thing to do if you suspect your horse has any form of injury is to have him examined by a professional. Trained specialists can detect and treat soft tissue adhesions with various techniques to help break down the adhesion.
An bodyworker with massage therapy training can detect the signs of muscle adhesions and help guide you toward the next steps to take.
How can you treat fibrous muscle adhesions?
Massages are an important and non-invasive way to treat muscle adhesions. Some common treatments include:
Myofascial Release
Active Release Techniques
CranioSacral Therapy
Deep-tissue massage
It is important to work with your horse's care team, including the veterinarian, trainer, therapist, and bodyworker, to determine the best course of treatment for your horse.
Ready to make an appointment?
Gretchen is available for appointments if you are looking for a bodywork specialist in the Ocala or Central Florida region. Call or text now!
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