Frequently Asked Questions
What is equine bodywork?
Equine bodywork is a hands-on approach that supports muscle function, movement, and overall comfort. It may include massage, PEMF therapy, and cupping to help address tension, restrictions, and recovery needs.
How does equine massage help my horse?
Massage helps reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, support range of motion, and promote relaxation. It is commonly used to support performance, recovery, and overall wellness.
What is PEMF (MagnaWave) therapy?
PEMF, or pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, uses electromagnetic waves to support cellular function, circulation, and tissue recovery. By encouraging healthy cellular communication and energy production, PEMF helps the body work more efficiently at a foundational level.
PEMF is commonly used to support:
Muscle soreness and stiffness
Joint discomfort and mobility
Inflammation
Circulation and lymphatic flow
Soft tissue recovery after training or competition
General relaxation and overall tissue health
When used alongside massage and other bodywork modalities, PEMF can help promote faster recovery, improved comfort, and better movement quality
What is cupping therapy for horses?
Cupping uses negative pressure to lift tissues rather than compress them. This can help address fascial restrictions, improve circulation, and support muscle and movement function.
Does cupping hurt?
Cupping should not be painful. Most horses tolerate it well and often show signs of relaxation during or after treatment.
How often should my horse receive bodywork?
Frequency depends on the horse’s workload, age, discipline, and individual needs. Some benefit from maintenance sessions every four to six weeks, while others may require more frequent support.
Can bodywork replace veterinary care?
No. Equine bodywork supports overall wellness and comfort but does not replace veterinary diagnosis or medical treatment. It works best as part of a collaborative care team.
What types of horses benefit from bodywork?
All horses can benefit, including performance horses, pleasure horses, young horses in training, and seniors. Each session is tailored to the individual horse.
Will my horse need downtime after a session?
I prefer most of my clients to have off at least 24 hours after a session.
Time off allows the horse to receive the maximum benefit from their session. Massage stimulates circulation, lymphatic flow, and tissue release, all of which continue working after the session ends. Depending on how deep the tissue work was, some horses may experience mild soreness as their muscles adapt and recover. Allowing 24 hours of rest supports proper tissue healing, reduces the risk of compensation, and helps the body fully integrate the work.
How long does a session take?
Sessions typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the services used and the horse’s needs.
Massage- 45-75 minutes
Full body Magnawave- 30-45 minutes
Target Magnawave- 15 minutes
“The Works”- 60-90 minutes
What should I expect during the first session?
The first session includes a brief history, observation of movement, hands-on assessment, and a customized treatment plan. Your horse’s comfort always guides the session.
First sessions can vary in length. Some may be longer due to the time spent observing movement, gathering history, and addressing underlying tension—especially if your horse is new to bodywork. Other first sessions may be shorter, as some horses can become overstimulated and may not tolerate a full hour initially.
For horses, massage is very different than it is for people. You understand why you’re receiving bodywork; your horse does not. A new person working on sensitive or sore areas can feel vulnerable, and as prey animals, some horses need time to feel safe and fully relax. While some horses settle into bodywork right away, others may need a few sessions to learn how to let go.
If a horse is tense, guarding, or mentally checking out, their tissues are less likely to fully release. Taking a calm, low-stress approach during the first few sessions helps build trust, allows the nervous system to relax, and ensures your horse receives the greatest benefit from their bodywork.How do I know if bodywork is helping?
Owners often notice improved relaxation, better movement, more even muscle tone, and improved willingness to work over time. For more info on what to expect check out my blog post “What to Expect During Your First Session”.
Will I see results from my horse’s bodywork?
Yes. Many owners notice positive changes in their horse’s movement, comfort, and even overall attitude with regular bodywork. Some horses show immediate improvements after their first session, while others may need a few sessions before changes become more noticeable—especially if they are new to bodywork or carrying long-term tension.
As your horse is placed on a maintenance schedule, results often continue to build from session to session. Improvements may include better muscle tone, easier bending and balance under saddle, improved tracking up, increased softness and willingness, reduced sensitivity during grooming or tacking, and a more relaxed, comfortable demeanor overall.
