5 Common Tension Areas in Horses and How to Release Them

Whether you're a seasoned equine bodyworker or a dedicated horse owner, understanding where horses hold tension—and how to release it—is key to keeping them comfortable, balanced, and performing at their best.

Muscle tension can result from poor saddle fit, training imbalances, conformation issues, compensation patterns, or even emotional stress. In this post, we’ll explore 5 of the most common areas where horses hold tension and share effective, holistic ways to gently release it.

1. Poll and Atlas Area

📍 Where:

The poll (area behind the ears) and atlas (first cervical vertebra) are major tension hotspots, especially in horses that resist bridling, toss their head, or have stiffness turning.

🌿 How to Release:

• Use gentle craniosacral holds to balance fluid movement and decompress the area.

• Apply soft circular massage or myofascial release around the poll and ears.

• Encourage jaw mobility with gentle stretching or subtle lateral flexion.

2. Withers and Shoulder Area

📍 Where:

Tension in the shoulders often shows up as short, choppy strides in the front end or reluctance to move forward.

🌿 How to Release:

• Use long, gliding effleurage strokes along the scapula and into the withers.

• Apply gentle compression and release techniques over the shoulder blade.

• Try kinesiology taping to support postural changes after release.

3. Back and Thoracic Sling

📍 Where:

The area along the spine and around the thoracic sling (muscles supporting the rib cage between the front legs) is crucial for movement and weight-bearing.

🌿 How to Release:

• Apply deep tissue massage with care, staying just lateral to the spine.

• Use rocking and cross-fiber techniques to stimulate circulation and encourage muscle release.

• Focus on lifting exercises and carrot stretches to support long-term engagement and strength.

4. Gluteals and Sacroiliac (SI) Region

📍 Where:

The large muscles of the hind end—gluteals, hamstrings, and SI area—are major power centers. Tension here can lead to poor impulsion, bucking, or uneven hind limb movement.

🌿 How to Release:

• Use slow, circular kneading over the glutes to soften large muscle groups.

• Apply myofascial release along the sacrum, especially at the top of the croup.

• Try pelvic rocking or ANMR techniques to support alignment and release.

5. Pectorals and Chest

📍 Where:

Often overlooked, the chest muscles can become tight due to poor posture, front-end loading, or overuse.

🌿 How to Release:

• Gently knead the pectorals with your thumbs or fingers, staying clear of the sternum.

• Combine massage with stretching of the forelimbs to open the chest.

• Use acupressure points (such as LU-1) to stimulate relaxation and release.

Final Thoughts

Helping horses release tension is not just about technique—it’s about tuning in. The more we understand where and whyhorses carry stress, the more effective our work becomes.

Whether you’re already certified or just starting your journey into equine bodywork, keep observing, feeling, and learning. Every session is an opportunity to deepen your connection and make a positive impact on the horse’s well-being.

📚 Want to Learn More?

Check out our Equine Massage Certification Course and discover how to safely and effectively support your horse’s body using massage, body alignment techniques, and more.