Horses are magnificent powerful creatures built for movement. That movement relies on 700 muscles and are enveloped in a complex network of fascia. Due to the type of activities horses take part in, this massive network regularly experiences, stress, tears and strains. Just like humans, when horses sustain injuries, the damaged tissue heals in a fibrotic manner that results in restricted mobility, limited stability, and very often, pain and functional limitations that can sideline them indefinitely. Musculoskeletal injures are the predominant cause of loss of use in sport horses.

Equine therapies offer a variety of modalities to keep your horse active and competing comfortably, throughout their career.

In 2020 after running a private boarding facility in Oro-medonte for several years I decided it was time for a change.

There were many wellness professionals in and out of the barn providing a variety of treatments. In speaking to many of them I discovered that other than the chiropractors most equine massage therapists had little more than a weekend course, and limited knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics. I felt I could do better.

After researching numerous programs, most of which were taught over a weekend and some strictly on line I found the right fit.

Through a six week full-time program, which was 240 in class and clinical hours, along with several weeks of at-home study prior to its start, I was able to graduate and become a CEMT.

I wanted to continue my education and explore other modalities of treatment which would be beneficial to my clients.

I went on to study and become a Certified Graston Technique Practitioner. This treatment is relatively new to the equine industry with very few certified therapists in Canada. I was pleased to be able to participate.

Magnawave PEMF was a treatment I had long been curious about. A few practitioners had been treating  horses in my care over the years and I could see the beneficiary effects. Most of them very quickly became relaxed and accepted the treatment willingly. PEMF’s ability to reduce inflammation and relieve pain seemed like the perfect addition to my wellness treatments. I am so convinced of its benefits I completed my certification to work with not only horses but dogs, cats, small animals, livestock and humans!  I have an active family of athletes and have treated numerous sports related injuries with the Magnawave.

Thermal Imaging was something I was introduced to through a colleague. Though it is NOT a replacement for x-rays, CT scans or MRI’s it is a good tool to detect subtle changes in the body. Your horse may seem a bit off but you just aren’t sure there is enough reason to make an expensive vet appointment. A scan with the thermal imaging camera may provide enough information to address minor issues. (hoof abscess for example) As a CEMT the imaging shows me areas that may require more attention and allows for a more effective treatment session. Imaging before and after riding can address improper saddle fit. Thermal Imaging can also be a good first step to a pre-purchase exam and great maintenance reference when done annually at the same time as inoculations.

When I come and complete a treatment on your horses you are provided with a detailed owners report within 24 hours of completion of the appointment. The report will include images, details of the treatment, areas of concern and follow-up recommendations.  This is an excellent reference tool for both of us as well as for your vet.

Sessions booked with me generally run about 90 mins. I often include more than one treatment modality during the course of the session. Most horses enjoy a little PEMF to relax prior to massage. Graston can address areas of concentrated scar tissue and difficult to reach areas. However if you prefer to stick to one method of treatment I am happy to do so!

Cassandra Robson, CMET