Stretching

Passive Movement & Passive Stretching

Both passive movement and passive stretching should follow either exercise or a massage when the tissues are warmed up. Cold stretching can damage muscle tissue and result in injury. A passive movement is movement of a joint in which the therapist, not the horse, carries out the movement i.e. the therapist moves the joint through the normal range of motion without an active contribution of muscle contraction from the horse. This normally applies to limbs in the non weight-bearing position.

A passive stretch follows the initial pathway of a passive movement but then at the end of the range of movement more pressure is applied to increase the range. Stretching is aimed at maintaining or restoring a normal range of movement together with helping the flexibility of muscles, thus allowing good mobility of joints, otherwise the range of movement is restricted. This may lead to muscle fatigue.

The physiological effect of a passive stretch produces stretching of joint capsules, ligaments, muscles, skin and connective tissue. There is elongation of the muscle bodies and tendons and may provide enhanced elastic properties. Blood supply may be improved throughout the tissues.

Both passive movements and passive stretches help to trigger the normal proprioceptive mechanisms within the horse's body which allow monitoring of the horse's movement and placement of different parts of its body.

Limb stretches not only help muscles and soft tissues at the top of the limb, but may also include those around the shoulder and pelvis area.

Care should be taken when carrying out stretching techniques to ensure health and safety of both horse and therapist.

Active Movement and Active Stretching

An active movement is a movement in response to muscle activity. An active stretch is a movement conducted by the horse which leads to stretching of tissues. Examples of active stretches include those used to stretch the neck. Titbits such as carrots are used to encourage the horse to stretch in a particular direction to help increase flexion of the neck.