Why the “Next Big Thing” in Bodywork Won’t Fix Your Horse

Stop Chasing the Next Big Thing in Equine Bodywork — because healing doesn’t come from a flashy tool, it comes from thoughtful, responsive care.

If you're passionate about helping horses feel their best, you've probably been tempted (more than once) by the promise of the next big thing in bodywork.

Maybe it's a brand-new fascia tool. A flashy modality. A trending technique everyone’s raving about on social media.

And while curiosity and continuing education are wonderful things—we need to talk about something important…

Barbara ParksApril 9, 2025Comment

Why Clicker Training Isn’t Just for Tricks—It’s for Rehab, Too

If you’ve heard of positive reinforcement (also called R+ or clicker training), you might associate it with tricks, liberty work, or building trust on the ground.

And while it does support all of those things— its true power lies in how it supports the whole horse, especially in physical therapy and movement work.

horse health, biomechanics, Clicker Training, Train Your EyeBarbara ParksApril 8, 2025Comment

A Better Way to Retire: Why Older Horses Thrive on Track Systems

As our horses age, their needs change—physically, emotionally, and environmentally. One of the most powerful tools we can offer older horses, especially those managing arthritis or chronic stiffness, is the gift of gentle, consistent movement. That’s where track systems come in.

horse health, hoof health, Rehab, Senior HorsesBarbara ParksApril 6, 2025Comment

Tight Fascia? It Could Be Dehydration — Here’s What to Know

We often talk about the importance of keeping horses hydrated for digestion, temperature regulation, and performance. But there’s another critical—but lesser-known—reason to prioritize water intake: fascia health.

Fascia, the body’s vast network of connective tissue, relies heavily on hydration to remain supple, elastic, and fully functional. So what happens when a horse is even slightly dehydrated? The effects might be more significant than you think.

horse health, equine massageBarbara ParksApril 5, 2025Comment

What Is Equine Physical Therapy? (And How Is It Different From Massage or Chiropractic?)

🐴 More Than Just “Bodywork”

You love your horse. You want to keep them healthy, moving well, and feeling their best. But when something’s off—maybe they're stiff, short-striding, or just “not quite right”—where do you turn?

That’s where equine physical therapy comes in. But what is physical therapy for horses? And how does it compare to other modalities like massage or chiropractic?

Let’s break it down.

Rehab, horse health, biomechanicsBarbara ParksApril 4, 2025Comment

🚩 5 Signs Your Horse is Not a Candidate for Massage—and Needs to See a Vet

As equine therapists and horse owners, our number one priority is the health and safety of the horse. While massage offers incredible benefits for muscle tension, circulation, and relaxation, it’s not a substitute for veterinary care—and in some cases, it’s simply not appropriate.

Knowing the difference between when to massage and when to refer to a vet is part of being a responsible equine caregiver or bodyworker.

Here are five signs your horse may need veterinary attention before receiving any kind of massage therapy.

equine massageBarbara ParksApril 3, 2025Comment

🐴 5 Signs Your Horse Could Benefit from Massage

As horse owners, riders, and caretakers, we all want our equine partners to feel their best—physically and emotionally. But unlike us, horses can’t tell us when something feels off... at least, not with words. They communicate through movement, posture, and behavior—and it’s up to us to listen.

One powerful tool to support your horse’s well-being is massage therapy. But how do you know when it’s needed?

Here are five common signs your horse may be telling you it’s time for some bodywork.

equine massage, horse healthBarbara ParksApril 3, 2025Comment

🌱 Spring Laminitis: Why Prevention Starts Before the Grass Turns Green

As the days get longer and the pasture starts to glow with new life, most horse owners feel a sense of excitement. But for many horses—especially those with metabolic issues—spring can be one of the most dangerous times of year.

Enter: spring laminitis.

This seasonal risk is more than just a fluke; it’s a predictable, preventable problem that deserves a place in every horse owner’s spring plan.

hoof health, Rehab, horse healthBarbara ParksApril 2, 2025Comment

What Every Horse Owner Should Know About Soundness

If you’ve ever watched your horse move and thought,

“Something’s just a little… off,”
you’re not alone.

Maybe they’re not lame, but they’ve started resisting the saddle.
Or they pin their ears during grooming, or just don’t seem quite like themselves anymore.
You check the tack. You rest them. You second-guess everything.

And still—something doesn’t feel right.

biomechanics, Clicker Training, horse health, Train Your EyeBarbara ParksApril 2, 2025Comment