FAQs
How long does a session take?
The initial appointment will be:
2 hours for an equine session
1 hour 30 minutes for the rider
3 hours to 3 hours 30 minutes for a combined session.
Maintenance sessions will be:
1 hour 30 minutes for an individual equine
1 hour 15 minutes for the rider
2 hours 30 minutes for a combined session depending on the nature of the appointment.
Pre or post event massage will be around a 30 minutes per session.
What is included in a Horse & Rider Combined session?
A combined session includes the same treatment as an individual appointment, as well as a ridden assessment from a biomechanical perspective.
Do I have to be a rider to receive treatment?
No, many grooms, carriage drivers, farriers - in fact all those who are involved in the equestrian industry - can massively benefit from sports massage!
Can I ride the same day as the appointment?
It is dependant on the nature of the appointment and the issues that are present. In many cases when there is no injury rehabilitation involved, Charlie will recommend riding after the session. It is important to do some gentle movement so that the body does not stiffen up, standing in a stable for hours, for the horse, or going home and sitting on the sofa for extended periods, for the rider, is something Charlie would certainly advise against. It is important that both horse and rider can experience the changes in their bodies and adapt to subtle new movement patterns. The body will naturally want to revert back to its learnt habitual posture and movement, so using the body in the right way after the treatment can be an important part of restoring balance and maintaining the results.
What is included in an Equine Treatment session?
The initial appointment will include a thorough consultation, a static postural assessment and dynamic assessment of the horses movement in hand. Ideally we will see the horse being lunged, to assess the canter, or ridden, depending on the nature of the appointment.
An appropriate treatment plan will be made and discussed with the owner, relating to the areas of concern or restrictions that may be detected throughout the assessment process.
Although each treatment will be modified to suit the individual, every hands-on session will include, and cover, the full muscle chains of the body to promote balance. A stretching and exercise program will be recommended that is bespoke to your horse’s needs and advice on maintenance is given.
Where can I be treated as a rider?
Charlie has a portable table, so depending on your yard facilities and set up, she is happy to treat at the same venue as your horse. Alternatively, she works with a lovely clinic based in Hintlesham, Suffolk, where appointments can be booked via email through their website Hyntle Barn Clinic - Livelong Health & Wellness or on the phone 01473 652509.
(Please note package prices and discounts will not apply at the clinic, as this is a separate business.)
What are the benefits of an Event Massage?
Massage is a great tool for warming up and stimulating the tissues, by increasing the blood circulation and preparing the body for physical activity.
Event Massage is a shorter session and often used with a horse or rider that is prone to tension & anxiety in a show environment. It can help to promote relaxation and focus the mind, as well as reducing the risk of injury before a strenuous competition. Post Event Massage is fantastic for promoting muscle recovery by using specific techniques to flush the tissues of toxins and lactic acid build up. This can dramatically reduce stiffness and delayed onset muscle soreness post competition for both horse and rider.
Please note, an initial session with rider or horse, will have to be undertaken prior to any event day treatment.
What is included in a Rider Treatment?
The initial appointment will include a thorough consultation, where you can discuss with Charlie any current pain or hidden issues experienced in the body.
A static postural assessment and non-ridden dynamic assessment will be carried out to detect restriction, imbalance, dominance or discomfort.
An appropriate treatment plan will be made and agreed on, according to the rider’s needs and what is observed throughout the assessment process.
A variety of hands-on techniques will be used to treat the areas of concern, followed by recommendations on appropriate stretching and a maintenance program given.
What should I wear to the appointment?
You can wear what ever you feel comfortable in, but please note Charlie will need to assess your posture and position, therefore you may wish to change into shorts and vest for your comfort, as an alternative to underwear. Your privacy is taken into account at all times and you will always be covered appropriately, by a modesty towel, throughout the treatment.
If you are riding, Charlie would advise that closely fitted clothing is worn so that it is easier to observe the body’s position and movement.
Why does Charlie require veterinary consent?
If your horse is currently undergoing any veterinary treatment, please let Charlie know prior to your appointment, as the current Veterinary Consent Act requires written consent from your vet before any body-work treatment is carried out.
This is in the best interest of your horse’s welfare and it gives Charlie the opportunity to liaise closely with your vet, discuss the horse’s condition, ensure that there are no contra-indications to the treatment and allows for an appropriate treatment plan to be implemented.
Please email Charlie, charlie@horseandridersportsmassage.co.uk for a form, if applicable.
Massage should never be used as a substitute for veterinary care and any insured and registered practitioner should always follow The Veterinary Act 1966. The animal’s welfare should be every practitioners highest priority and we work in unity with your vets, and all medical guidelines are respected and followed.