Massage and Myofascial Release
For horse and human By Dawn McCaig ITEC dip HM, EBW
Manipulation, Massage and Myofascial Release
For horse and rider
By Dawn McCaig Dip MCST (WCST), Dip MCAM (OCEPT), Dip HM (ITEC), EEBW

Myofascial release (Muscle Fascia Release) is used for the release of fascia (connective
tissue) which has become stuck, hardened and dehydrated. Fascia is a three dimensional
web that surrounds every bone, muscle, nerve, organ and vessel down to the cellular
level from head to toe. Restrictions can develop in fascia from trauma, poor posture
and repetitive training. These restrictions can create pain, swelling, misalignments,
poor muscular biomechanics, decreased range of motion, decreased strength and lameness.
Restrictions in the fascial system can put up to 2000lbs of pressure per square inch
onto bones, ligaments, muscles and organs causing the structures to misalign or become
constricted resulting in ineffective muscle usage, poor circulation, build up of
toxins, strain and eventually trauma/injury.
Myofascial release (MFR) is used as my main modality during a session as it is most
effective at facilitating the body's innate healing to realign bony structures and
release deep seated tension and trauma.

Myofascial release is a hands-on technique that uses slow, sustained pressure without
sliding on the skin, therefore no oil is used. It is a very different sensation
to massage. As the stuck, hardened and dehydrated fascia is released you may feel
slight pain, prickling, heat and stretch sensations. This is nothing to worry about
and is essential to the healing process. Humans will tell me that it is uncomfortable
and horses will tend to nip or scratch themselves where the discomfort is.
As the fascia is connected throughout the entire body, you may feel sensations in
areas of the body that my hands are not placed on. Likewise, I may find a restriction
in your body which you may feel is not linked to your primary complaint, however,
all restrictions need to be released.