Compression is similar to Petrissage. It is one of the main movements used in Equine Sports Massage Therapy.

Similar to petrissage, you lean into the horse with your hand or fist, but without the kneading circular motion. Compression is more of a pumping action. You will use your palm or your fist in a lift and press motion.

Another form of compression is Direct Pressure. You apply pressure with your hand, thumb, arm, elbow, etc and wait for the muscle tissue to soften.

Start out light and "sink" into the muscle. Be sure not to use too much pressure and do NOT push. Once again, be sure you are leaning. Please read the section on Proper Body Mechanics for Equine Therapy to learn more about the proper way to lean and use your body for leverage.

If you are leaning on a muscle, you will be giving the body time to allow the muscle to "open". Take your time. Do not be tempted to try to hurry the process.

If you push on a muscle, the muscle could react negatively to the sudden pressure and tense and push you out. You also have the possibility of causing harm to the tissues by apply too much pressure too quickly. Bruising or minor tissue tearing could result.

It is better to use too little pressure and build up - than apply too much pressure too quickly and cause damage. Give your horse's muscles a chance to relax and soften. Sometimes it can take a while, but I promise you that if you force it to "speed up" the process, you are not doing your horse any favors. Better to wait until you have the time needed to do the job right.

Some people will try to tell you horses are big and need a lot of pressure. Let me remind you that horses are still tissue and tissue can be damaged. Take your time and work with the body. Do not try to force muscle tissue - EVER!!!! Be patient and take your time.


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