The Importance of Skin to the Equine Masseur

Main Points To Consider

1 ~ Skin covers the entire outer surface of the body.

2 ~It is the first palpable structure, that the masseurs hands are in constant contact with at all times.

3 ~ Assessment of skin both visually and through touch is a reliable reflector of internal body health and overall condition of the animal.

4 ~ Hydration levels can be monitored visually. The “skin pinch” is a useful tool, for the masseur to test for dehydration.

5 ~ The masseur interprets the sensations received through the hands when in contact with the skin, as all other tissues are palpated through this structure. A full understanding of how the skin should appear and feel is essential to the equine masseur.

6 ~ Elasticity and suppleness of the skin, can indicate to the masseur the health and condition of the tissues.

7 ~ Neural Receptors and the Cutaneous Reflex of the skin can give the masseur a wider understanding and help to pinpoint any areas of concern.

Skin is one of the most important structures to the masseur, as it covers the entire outer surface of the body and is the only visible organ. It is the first palpable structure that the hands are in constant contact with, throughout assessment and massage. The visible appearance and condition of both the coat and skin can indicate a great deal to the masseur and is a reliable reflector of internal body health. A glossy and naturally oiled coat indicates a good state of health; however, a dull, dry and poor appearance of coat indicates poor health or some underlying concern of condition.

The appearance and “feel” of the skin is a good indicator of hydration levels of the animal and should feel loose and pliable. When picked up in a “skin pinch” and released it should return smoothly and freely into its former position. A delayed reaction indicates a degree of dehydration.

The masseur can, by touching the skin of the horse and feeling the different tissues, discover a great deal. The exploration of the animal as a whole, through palpation, assists both in pinpointing areas of tension and gaining an overall picture of the anatomical make up and condition of the animal. To be effective as a masseur, the hands must develop the ability to interpret the sensations received when they are in contact with the skin, and be able to transfer what they are feeling into a visible picture. All strokes and techniques are applied over and through the skin to underling tissues, with the masseur feeling all other structures through the skin. The masseur should maintain an even and rhythmical application of techniques; onto and through the structures of the skin.

The many neural receptors situated within the skin are stimulated through touch, if the cutaneous reflex is disturbed or absent; this may indicate a nerve route is compromised / damaged. With a thorough understanding of anatomy, physiology and suggested links between certain anatomical superficial points, and organs / muscles of the animal; the masseur can assess and provide an overall picture. Once a clear picture has been established, an appropriate massage routine tailored to the individuals animals needs can be applied.