Functional Bodywork Therapy

Equine Body Performance offers a holistic approach to supporting the health and well-being of horses through Functional Bodywork Therapy, combining advanced manual techniques and osteopathic principles to improve mobility, balance and overall functionality. This method addresses not only symptoms, but also the root causes of discomfort, incorporating specialized work on trigger points and other targeted areas for effective relief.

What is Functional Bodywork Therapy?

Functional Bodywork Therapy is based on the understanding that the horse’s body operates as an interconnected system, where muscles, joints, fascia and internal systems must work in harmony. Disruptions to this balance caused by injury, tension or compensatory patterns can result in discomfort, restricted movement or diminished performance. Functional Bodywork Therapy focuses on identifying and addressing these imbalances to restore optimal function.

Techniques used in Functional Bodywork Therapy

A combination of manual and osteopathic techniques is applied to provide a tailored, comprehensive treatment for each horse.

These include:

Osteopathic Techniques

Gentle, hands-on techniques rooted in osteopathy are used to restore balance and alignment throughout the horse’s body. These techniques aim to:

• Release joint blockages and improve mobility.

• Restore balance to the musculoskeletal system.

• Promote natural healing by improving circulation and nervous system function.

Trigger Point Therapy

Specific focus on hyper-sensitive knots or tension points in muscles (trigger points) that can restrict movement and cause pain. Sustained, precise pressure is applied to release these areas, relieving muscle spasms and restoring flexibility.

Myofascial Release

A technique targeting the connective tissue (fascia) to relieve restrictions, improve elasticity and enhance the horse’s range of motion.

Deep Tissue Mobilizations

Manual therapy aimed at deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue to address chronic tension and structural imbalances.

Craniosacral Techniques

Gentle manipulation of the skull, spine and sacrum to balance the nervous system, reduce tension and encourage relaxation. 

The Role of Osteopathic Techniques in Functional Bodywork

Osteopathic techniques complement the methods outlined above by focusing on restoring the body’s natural alignment and self-healing mechanisms. By improving the interplay between joints, muscles and connective tissues, osteopathic work helps to:

• Resolve underlying issues that limit performance or cause pain.

• Enhance movement and flexibility by addressing structural imbalances.

• Support the horse’s recovery process after injuries or surgeries.

• Improve overall balance and coordination, reducing compensatory patterns.

When is Functional Bodywork Therapy Beneficial?

This therapy is ideal for horses experiencing:

• Stiffness, restricted range of motion or uneven gait.

• Pain or discomfort in the back, neck, shoulders or limbs.

• Post-injury or post-surgery rehabilitation.

• Stress or tension affecting both the body and emotions.

• Performance challenges or limitations in sport and leisure horses.

 The Equine Body Performance Approach

At Equine Body Performance, every treatment plan is tailored to the individual horse’s needs. By integrating osteopathic techniques, trigger point therapy, myofascial release and craniosacral work, this holistic approach ensures that both the root causes and the symptoms of discomfort are addressed.

 The combination of osteopathic principles and manual therapy allows Equine Body Performance to support the horse’s natural balance, movement and performance, helping them achieve their full potential in a sustainable and gentle way.

Would you like to learn more or book a session?

Contact Equine Body Performance for professional care designed to meet your horse’s specific needs.