There is a photo of me sitting on a horse with my Grandpa holding me there at less than 3 months old. You can definitely say that I have been surrounded by horses for as a long as I can remember.  I currently own two geldings who I love dearly and have plans to add a team of draft horses to carry on my family tradition of working horses around our farm. 

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Life sends us on many turns, some expected, some not so much. I found myself in a career in physical therapy which has taught me some amazing lessons. First, that manual work and the power of touch should never be underestimated and second that working with animals (while I still do love people) is my ultimate calling. I have been familiar with John Barnes and his myofascial work as it relates to human treatments for years, however, in 2018 I stumbled on the courses that utilize this technique but on horses! Since that first class I have attended all the available courses and intend to take them again just to further deepen my ability and understanding on this particular treatment modality.

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So what is myofascial? Myo means neuromuscular and fascial simply means the connective components in the body. The myofascial system is one of vital importance to proper positioning, movement, function and overall health of a body (human or animal). This system has approximately 2000 pounds of tensile strength and can respond faster than the nervous system. Just like muscles have memory so does the myofascial system. Repetitive movements, trauma, injury etc can all impact the memory and thus positioning of the fascial system. So just think if you have a misalignment somewhere from overuse and the myofascial system is now holding the body in a compromised position, without releasing the fascia there are high chances that the boney and ligamentous structures will move right back out of alignment (2000 pounds of tensile strength is a lot!).

 

The work is slow and gentle and holds can often last longer than 5 minutes. Some treatments show results almost immediately while others take longer depending on the severity of the situation. Each horse has such a different and individual personality, I never grow tired of watching each response and release. Some give me huge yawns others almost fall asleep. Myofascial release is a powerful and effective tool that I have seen work time and again. I do encourage all clients to talk with their Vet before a treatment, and I in turn will always recommend or stop treatment if I feel more advanced medical care is needed for your beloved horse.

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I am currently attending North Carolina State University and will graduate in May 2025 with my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.

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I cannot, and will not, claim to “cure” or diagnose illness etc, however I will state with confidence that this type of manual release is effective and can be a great tool in improving the function and quality of life for your equine family members.

*Horses often take a village, so in addition to veterinary care I may also recommend saddle fitting or farrier work. I can also implement use of animal safe essential oils and modalities in conjunction with a session*