Undue stress and tension in any part of the horse's body will have an adverse effect. Horses avoid any movement causing pain. If you feel your horse is in pain, then it may be time for you to try sports massage on your horse. Massage concentrates on muscles which cannot secure their own release. Sometimes sensitive muscles evolve into orthopedic type injuries and issues.
Massage enables freedom of movement by reducing the resistance to motion.
Sports massage is not new to the equine world. In the past, skilled grooms were expected to be very knowledgable in massage. It has now been rediscovered and expanded upon. Deep muscle therapy is now more accepted and intergrated into equine alternative care as well as conventional care. Massage increases performance and allows the body to heal itself.