Equi-Taping® Methodology – The Winning Edge

Every athlete looks for that winning edge. In the equestrian community, where horses compete for ribbons and money, savvy equine enthusiasts quickly avail themselves of the latest modality, technique or supplement, intended to help them find that edge. Unfortunately, often times, their new undertaking turns out to be nothing but hype. However, on other occasions, they are fortunate enough to discover something which can offer improved training benefits, and faster recovery time from exercise and injury, and offer them that winning edge. Equestrians are now claiming that equine kinesiology taping might just be that edge.

Taken from human athletics, where Olympians and professional athletes worldwide are using the tape successfully, Equi-Tape®, the first kinesiology tape developed for the equine athlete, has led the effort crossing over to the equestrian community to help sport horses of all disciplines train harder and recover quicker. Equi-Taping®, a taping method developed specifically for the professional equine practitioner, has seen tremendous growth in the equestrian community with good reason. Many owners and trainers have seen the astounding results, while professional equine practitioners who have added the Equi-Taping® modality to their respective practices have seen firsthand the effect of equine taping.

It is interesting to note, that the benefits of kinesiology tape are derived directly from its application; it contains no medicine. The key to its success, lies in its elasticity and structure, the manner in which it adheres to the body, and the method and technique of the application. The specific taping application chosen determines the physiological goal desired, and the eventual beneficial effect of the application. This can often be confusing, as kinesiology taping is unique in its mode of action on the body.

General Benefits of Use

Depending upon the application of the tape, the overall effect is designed to decrease pain and increase lymph and blood circulation. Equi-Tape® specially designed for the equine, can also be used to relax tight and tense muscles, assist weak muscles, support joints, tendons and ligaments, as well as decrease inflammation and swelling.
Furthermore, because of the tape’s elasticity, being non-restrictive thereby allowing for full range of motion, it is a valuable tool and should be included in everyone’s equine training and health care regimen.

While the uses of equine kinesiology tape are many, some of the more common uses include:

• Athletic training, prevention and recovery – Horses that become fatigued from repetitive stress, overuse or overworked muscles. Myofascial conditions, muscle recovery after competition, and joint support before, during or after exercise.
• Therapeutic and rehabilitation – Horses affected by suspensory and DDFT (digital deep flexor tendon) injuries, ankle and hock joint issues, shoulder problems, pain and swelling from conditions such as lymphedema or trauma, and back and neck pain.
• Other uses – Abdominal support for pregnant mares, trigger point and acupuncture point stimulus, heel bandaging, hoof growth stimulation and sensory tapings, more.

The Importance of a Proper Assessment

The benefits associated with equine kinesiology taping are many, but are best realized when a proper assessment of the horse’s condition has been completed. For taping injuries, a proper assessment and diagnosis from a qualified equine professional is strongly recommended. If you are considering adding equine kinesiology taping to your horses’ daily or athletic training regimen, it is best to consult with a Certified Equi-Taping® professional. Non-professionals, trainers and horse owners can learn to tape their own horses, but it is often initially under the direction and guidance of a trained equine kinesiology taping professional.

Suspensory Desmitis Before and After

Here is a 26 year old mare with significant Suspensory Desmitis. The owner was concerned that this condition was progressive and the mare seemed increasingly more uncomfortable. The horse was assessed by a professional practitioner and it was determined that a support taping would be of benefit.

It is apparent from these photos, that the tape offered good support and suspensory ligament relief. In addition, this taping does not interfere with normal flexion and extension because of the tape’s elasticity. In fact, the tape assists in bringing the fetlock back to a more normal position. In conclusion, the owner reported that the horse seemed much more comfortable.

Common Applications

Although there are seemingly limitless applications associated with equine kinesiology taping, check out www.equi-tape.com for examples and videos. Equine professionals can refer to the practitioners’ content for up to date information on Certification Courses.

For more information on Equi-Tape® and Equi-Taping® Certification Courses, visit www.equi-tape.com.

Previously published in Animal Therapy Magazine.
Dr. Bev Gordon, Pres.
The Horse in Motion, Inc.
Founder/Creator Equi-Tape® and Developer of The Equi-Taping® Method

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