Equine massage therapy has become an increasingly recognised part of horse care, with many owners turning to trusted products to improve wellbeing and support recovery. Equilibrium is at the forefront of massage therapy innovation. Their product range has been developed using research-led insights, and studies have shown significant positive impacts on equine muscle condition, relaxation and movement.
In this research-backed guide, we outline key findings from independent studies into the Equilibrium Massage Back Pad and Equilibrium Heatsense Massage Back Pad to help our customers better understand how Equilibrium massage therapy can become an integral part of their equine care routine.
The Equilibrium Massage Back Pad: Research Findings
In 2007, Myerscough College conducted an investigation into the short-term effects of massage therapy on horses’ backs, assessing any changes observed in:
- Back flexibility
- Stride length
- Indicators of relaxation
Horses in the treatment group wore the Equilibrium Massage Back Pad and these results were compared against a control group.
Key Findings:
The study identified several measurable short-term changes in the treatment group, including:
An increase in spinal range of motion (deemed significant)
Static arch and dip measurements of the spine were taken using a flexi-ruler, comparing spinal range of motion prior to treatment and after treatment. Significantly greater arch and dip measurements were recorded in the treatment group, which suggested improved flexibility and freedom of movement throughout the horses’ backs.
Promotion of Overall Relaxation (deemed significant)
Stress and relaxation were measured by taking salivary cortisol levels, measuring heart rate and recording behaviour. The heart rate results showed a significant difference between the control and treatment group, inferring that the horses treated with the massage pad were more relaxed due to the effects of the massage.
Increase in stride length
The treatment group did show some increase in stride length in comparison to the control group.
Interpretation:
- The data, indicative of improved relaxation, could suggest that horses receiving Equilibrium massage therapy experience improvements to their overall wellbeing
- Horses could demonstrate improved performance because the data suggests improved spinal flexibility
- We would also expect relaxed muscles to assist with improvements in flexibility and movement, and so we might expect to see evidence of this in the performance of competition horses (such as those performing dressage movements or jumping technical fences).
Equilibrium Massage Pad Heatsense: Research Insights
More recently, Equilibrium expanded their product range with the Equilibrium Heatsense Massage Back Pad. This innovative product combines all the benefits of Equilibrium massage therapy alongside the controlled application of therapeutic heat.
An independent investigation led by saddle fitter Jasmin Gutsell in 2024 explored short-term changes in equine back dimensions following use of the Equilibrium Heatsense Massage Back Pad.
Study Summary
- 10 horses (ages 10-14) in regular training
- Horses were assessed before and after two sessions on separate days
- The sessions comprised of 30 minutes use of the Equilibrium Heatsense Massage Back Pad (massage and heat) and a walk and trot lunge session
- A flexible curve ruler traced the shape of the back at six anatomical points (including the saddle tree point, a key load-bearing area under the saddle).
Outcomes and Implications
- Statistically significant changes in back dimensions were recorded after a single session with the Equilibrium Heatsense Massage Back Pad
- Most measured areas showed increases in dimension, interpreted as muscle expansion likely linked to increased blood flow and muscle activation
- Some areas showed a decrease in size, thought to reflect muscle relaxation or fluid redistribution rather than loss of muscle tone.
There was no strong correlation between the changes observed following use of the Equilibrium Heatsense Massage Back Pad and those seen after lunging. These results showed that the effects of the Heatsense pad were different from those produced by lunging, suggesting that massage with heat may influence the muscles in ways that exercise alone does not. This supports the suggestion that the Heatsense pad has the potential to be used effectively as a warm up or preparatory tool before exercise or competition.
Massage Therapy Support with the Massage Mitt Hotspot
The Equilibrium Massage Mitt Hotspot draws on the same research as the Heatsense pad in its design, but allows more targeted application to specific muscle groups. Offering vibration therapy with an optional heat ‘hotspot’ setting, the Equilibrium Massage Mit Hotspot can be used to complement other hands-on treatments and contribute to recovery and care.
Redpost Equestrian: Here to Help
Here at Redpost Equestrian, we understand that investing in top quality products requires careful consideration. To make these big decisions easier, we offer trial options for some of our Equilibrium massage therapy products.
If you would like further help selecting which Equilibrium massage therapy product is best for your horse, or more information about our trial options, talk to a member of our friendly team in store or give us a call on 01803 812040 to find out more.
*Initial paper from Myersough College from 2007
