Read Equine Massage: A Practical Guide for Free Online Page A

that are near the surface of the skin.
    Therefore, heat from the core of the body is released through the skin.
    The pressure of massage movements has an effect on the circulation of blood throughout the body. Chapter 6 contains massage routines that can be used to deal with problems related to, or caused by, poor circulation.
    The Lymphatic System
    The lymphatic system plays an important role in the body’s defense mechanism in that it contains lymphocytes (white blood cells that aid in fighting viral and bacterial infections). It is the body’s first line of defense.When the body is injured, an increase of lymphatic fluid occurs at the site of trauma and produces swelling.
    The lymphatic system consists of a network of small vessels containing lymphatic fluid and structures called lymph nodes (which are like miniature cleansing factories). There are twice as many lymph vessels as there are blood vessels.This system also filters and removes debris and waste material.
    The lymphatic system sends fluid in only one direction—from the periphery of the body toward the heart.The circulation of the lymphatic fluid is slow, almost sluggish. Like veins, lymph vessels are equipped with cup-shaped valves to prevent backflow of the fluid. Muscle activity, breathing movements, and peristaltic activity of the bowels all contribute to the flow of lymphatic fluid.
    Lack of exercise can contribute to lymphatic congestion , which results in swelling in the limbs. Overloading the lymphatic system as a result of too much exercise can cause a buildup of toxins, which leads to an inflammation of the lymph vessels and lymph nodes.
    Following an injury, reduced muscular activity contributes to the slowing of lymphatic circulation. Massage with light drainage (effleurage movements) will assist lymphatic circulation. (Chapter 6
    offers a recuperation routine that can help speed up recovery.
    Basically, the purpose of the recuperation routine is to prevent lactic 14
    Equine Massage
    .
    .
    ic lc
    .
    .
    opliteal lcP
    Deep inguinal lc
    Caudal mesenter
    Iliosacral lc
    .
    .
    .
    Lumbar lc
    .
    ic lc
    Celicic lc
    .
    Inguino—
    femoral lc
    ta
    .
    Crauial Mesenter
    Aor
    sal thoracic lc
    .
    .
    Dor
    Diaphragm
    .
    vical lc
    Brauchial lc
    .
    Mediastinal lc
    ymphnodes
    yngeal lc
    Superficial cer
    Left tracheal duct
    ophor
    .
    Retr
    .
    .
    y lc
    arotid lcP
    .
    ymphocenters made of l
    .
    Axillar
    L
    ymphocenter
    ular lc
    vical lc
    . = L
    entral thoracic lc
    lc
    V
    Maudib
    tic System:
    Deep cer
    ympha
    The L
    1.4
    Anatomy and Physiology of the Horse
    15
    acid buildup after heavy training, racing, or competition.This routine will help prevent muscle stiffness, cramps, or tying up.) Massage does not directly affect the following four systems, but it does assist with the circulation of fluids (blood and lymph), allowing more nutrients and oxygen to reach the associated tissues.
    Massage also relaxes the central nervous system, contributing to an improved overall functioning of these four systems.
    The Endocrine System
    Made up of glands and associated organs, the endocrine system produces and releases hormones directly into the bloodstream.
    These hormones regulate growth, development, and a variety of other functions, including reproduction and metabolism.
    The Digestive System
    The digestive system alters the chemical and physical composition of food so it can be absorbed and utilized by the horse’s body.The gastrointestinal tract is a musculo-membranous tube that extends from the mouth to the anus (approximately 100 feet long). The digestive organs of the horse are the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, cecum, large intestine, and anus.A healthy digestive tract is vital for the efficient assimilation of food. A balanced diet is very important for good performance and general well-being.
    The Urinary System
    The urinary system maintains the balance of fluids in the body and eliminates waste products from the body.The urinary system consists of a