07/16/2026
If you have this or any other massage device please don’t hesitate to bring it out at our next appointment. I will gladly spend the time showing you the best places to work on and how to use them most effectively.
My rant for today and yes my opinion on the subject.
I want to talk about something I've been seeing a lot lately with handheld massage devices for horses. I have had a lot of student and clients reach out to me about this tool recently and something in to be addressed.
First, this isn't meant to bash any particular company or product. I actually think they're a great idea when they're used correctly. They can be a helpful tool between professional bodywork sessions such as massage or chiropractic care.
The problem isn't the tool—it's how it's being used.
I've watched several videos where these devices are being run directly over bony landmarks, the cervical vertebrae, the ribs, the point of the hip, and other sensitive areas. I've even seen them used very close to the jugular vein. Just because a machine has different speed settings doesn't mean every part of the horse's body is appropriate to treat with it.
Think about it this way: if someone took a massage gun and repeatedly pounded directly on your spine, hip bones, or ribs, it wouldn't feel good. Horses are no different.
One thing that concerns me is seeing horses clearly showing signs of discomfort while the person using the machine believes they're "relaxing." Reading a horse's body language is just as important as knowing how to operate the equipment. If you can't tell when your horse is saying "that's uncomfortable," then it's probably not the right time to be using a handheld massage device.
I really wish more companies spent time educating owners on proper safe treatment areas, pressure, and technique instead of focusing mostly on sales.
Education should always come before equipment.
I'm all for owners learning how to help their horses, but knowledge has to come first. A tool is only as good as the person using it.
Education protects your horse. That's always the goal.