It would be easier to answer "which horses shouldn't we massage?" as the vast majority of horses totally enjoy it and benefit from a Therapeutic Massage.

Horses which will particularly benefit are:

* Competing at any level
* As part of a fittening programme.
* A happy hacker
* On box rest or limited turn out.
* Recovering from an illness or injury as it promotes circulation bringing healing nutrients to the wound site and clears waste products such as dead cells and CO2.
* Stressed horses including those with vices such as stable walking, weaving ,etc.
* Chronic arthritis sufferers.
* If they lack social contact from other horses or people.
* Suffering from stiffness in any part of the body.
* Difficulty in working in an outline or on a particular rein as the cause can be muscular.
* Tense or excitable when ridden
* History of abuse or trauma
* Elderly horses whose muscles are stiffening up


Those that should not be massaged include:
* Pregnant mares
* Acute cases of arthritis
* Condition affecting the nervous system such as Tetnus.
* Undiagnosed lameness.