Introduction

Horses have evolved over millions to be a free ranging herbivore – they were not designed to carry humans on their backs or to perform the various gymnastics and repetitive movements we expect them to do. As a result many horses and ponies can end up suffering from chronic back problems that can lead to

- Poor ridden performance such as stiffness, hollowness, shortened stride length and/or

- Behavioural problems such a napping, bucking and rearing.

There are two routes to consider in treating these problems, and these are

- Remedial where a back problem is diagnosed

- Preventing back problems (which is obviously preferable)

Animal physiotherapy including massage has become popular for the treatment and maintenance of the musculoskeletal system in recent years.

Magnetic Therapy has been proven to have both positive effects in humans and animals in treating scar tissue, inflammation, reducing swelling, stiffness, muscle cramps and arthritis.

Massage, essentially the manipulation of soft tissues, has been noted to aid the prevention of injury, recovery from fatigue, relaxation and increasing mobility. (Hemmings, 2001).Performance depends on freedom of movement, full flexibility and an absence of musculoskeletal pain, all of which can improve with massage (Gellman, 1998). Traditionally massage methods have been manual but with recent advances in technology, electrical modalities have been introduced such as the equine massage pad designed by Equilibrium.

Equilibrium Products

The Magnetic Back Pad/Extension Quarters Pad will help relieve back soreness and inflammation. Powerful Vitaflex® magnets are used and can be placed wherever healing is needed.

The Massage Pad is designed to offer effective, affordable and easy to use massage therapy. The pad works by stimulating the muscles on the horse’s back, helping to increase back flexibility and promote relaxation.

For more information, please visit the Equilibrium Website