Connective tissue (fascia) surrounds all the bones and organs of the body and envelops and permeates each muscle. Its purpose is to connect the entire system into one working whole. Ideally, connective tissue is elastic and gel-like, allowing each muscle and bone to glide by its neighbor, working in harmony. Injuries, chronic stress or strain, aging, and even normal wear and tear can cause fascia to thicken into adhesions, often becoming fibrous and glue-like.
During the hands-on work, chronic adhesions release their hold allowing the horse’s structure to realign. He can move more efficiently as the flexibility and range of movement of the fascia planes increases. Freedom of movement emerges as the different layers begin to glide effortlessly over one another, bringing more energy and power to the muscles.