12/08/2025
Understanding the 72-Hour Response Window 🐴
Did you know how your horse continues to respond to massage therapy for up to 72 hours after treatment? It triggers a cascade of physiological changes that continue to support your horse’s health and performance well beyond the treatment session.
This is what’s happening inside your horse’s body during that window ⬇️
🔹 Increased Circulation
Massage stimulates blood flow, helping deliver oxygen and nutrients to muscles while flushing out waste products like lactic acid. This process continues for up to 72 hours, aiding in muscle recovery and reducing inflammation.
🔹 Lymphatic Drainage
Gentle techniques support the lymphatic system, enhancing detoxification and reducing swelling. This helps maintain a healthy immune response and supports healing after exertion or injury.
🔹 Reduced Muscle Tension & Spasm
Overworked or tight muscles begin to relax and soften, reducing tension around joints and improving range of motion. This also supports better movement patterns and gait correction.
🔹 Improved Nervous System Regulation
Massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, encouraging a state of calm and aiding digestive function, rest, and repair. Horses often show signs of release such as yawning, licking, or deep sighs during and after treatment.
🔹 Mental & Emotional Reset
Just like humans, horses store tension emotionally as well as physically. Continued relaxation and improved body awareness over the next few days can enhance their confidence, focus, and willingness to work.
📅 What to Expect Post-Massage:
During the 72-hour window, horses may seem more relaxed, sleepier, or move more freely. Some may show increased urination, gastrointestinal noises, or a slight dip in energy as the body shifts into a repair state. This is all normal and part of the healing response.
✅ Top Tip: Allow your horse some gentle movement in the 1–2 days after massage such as turnout or in-hand walking to help maximise these benefits and avoid stiffness.
Massage therapy is a powerful tool when integrated as part of a regular management plan. Understanding the body’s response helps us make the most of this natural, non-invasive treatment.
Considering a Career in Equine Massage? Visit ⬇️
www.woldsequinemassage.co.uk
