Clinical Application of Myofascial Therapy in Horses.

The research article explores the use of a particular therapy, called myofascial treatment, in relieving pain in horses. The paper covers how this complex tissue can change and sometimes result in pain, and the different treatment techniques available to address it.

Fascia and its Complexity

• The article introduces the fascia, which is described as a complex and intriguing type of tissue found in the horse’s body. This tissue can vary in structure, from being dense to loose, and regular to irregular.
• The important role of fascia in the body is emphasized as it serves to connect, separate, and unite the different body structures.

Myofascial Dysfunction

• The paper then moves on to discussing myofascial dysfunction, which can be a significant source of pain in horses. This dysfunction can present itself in three different forms, namely densification, adhesion, and fibrosis.
• The densification of fascia occurs when the tissue becomes dense due to factors like dehydration or direct trauma. Adhesion refers to the sticking of the fascia to the surrounding structures, while fibrosis involves the proliferation of fibrous connective tissue.

Identifying and Treating Myofascial Disorders

• The authors then focus on the identification and treatment of myofascial disorders. Through digital palpation, a therapist can recognize the disorders in the fascia. Therefore, it can be treated accordingly.
• There are two major types of techniques used in myofascial treatment: superficial and deep. The choice between these approaches depends on the condition and needs of the horse.

Myofascial Treatment Techniques

• The paper presents a detailed discussion on different myofascial treatment techniques. These techniques can be slow or fast, and can be applied at various depths, angles, and rhythms.
• The selection of the treatment technique depends on the horse’s specific needs, the therapist’s expertise and the specific myofascial disorder to be treated.