05/01/2025
I may not be a body worker, but working in such close proximity to horses as when clipping, I often notice what you may not when just giving your horse a quick flick off.
Horses don't have to hate being clipped to show more pronounced reactions to tension or soreness, and it's worth noting if I remark on it ;)
Is Your Horse Difficult to Clip? Understanding the Underlying Physical Connections
As equine therapists, we often hear about the “difficult-to-clip” horse. You know the one—constantly flinching, tossing their head, or outright refusing during clipping sessions. While behaviour is often attributed to sensitivity or temperament, the root cause is frequently physical discomfort, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and surrounding areas. Let’s dive into why this might be happening and how it ties into deeper physiological structures like the phrenic nerve, brachial plexus, and fascia.
The Phrenic Nerve
The phrenic nerve is a critical structure originating from the cervical vertebrae (C3, C4, and C5 sometimes C7). It innervates the diaphragm and plays a key role in respiration. When tension or misalignment exists in the cervical spine or surrounding fascia, the phrenic nerve can become compressed or irritated. This can lead to referred discomfort or hypersensitivity, particularly in areas where the nerve travels.
For a horse, this hypersensitivity can translate into an overreaction to stimuli like the vibration of clippers near the neck or shoulder. If your horse resists clipping around the jugular groove or base of the neck, it might be a sign of tension or restriction involving the phrenic nerve.
The Brachial Plexus
The brachial plexus is a network of nerves originating from the lower cervical and upper thoracic vertebrae (C6-T2). These nerves provide sensory and motor control to the shoulder, forelimb, and parts of the chest. Dysfunction in this area—whether due to muscle tension, poor saddle fit, or fascial restrictions—can result in heightened sensitivity or even pain in the shoulder and surrounding areas.
When clippers approach these regions, the horse may perceive the vibration or pressure as intolerable, not because they are “difficult,” but because it exacerbates an underlying issue. You're literally on his nerves!!
Fascia: The Body’s Connective Web
Fascia is a dense, fibrous connective tissue like a web that envelops muscles, nerves, and organs. It plays a vital role in overall mobility and comfort. When fascia becomes restricted—due to trauma, repetitive strain, or poor posture—it can create widespread discomfort and reduced flexibility.
In horses, fascial restrictions often present as tightness or sensitivity, especially in high-stress areas like the neck and shoulders. Clipping can irritate these restrictions, causing the horse to flinch or resist. Addressing these fascial imbalances through bodywork or therapy can significantly improve comfort and behaviour..
Pain and Tension: The Core of the Problem
The “difficult-to-clip” horse is not necessarily trying to be challenging—it is often their way of communicating discomfort. Pain or tension in the neck and shoulders, whether originating from nerve irritation, muscle strain, or fascial restriction, can make the simple act of clipping unbearable. Recognizing this as a physical issue, rather than purely behavioural, is key.
What Can Be Done?
1. Bodywork and Therapy: Regular osteopath sessions involve myofascial release, adjustments of the parietal system, and cranial sacral and can address tension in the neck, shoulders, and back.
2. Assessment by a Professional: If your horse consistently resists clipping, have them evaluated by a suitable equine therapist to rule out nerve compression or fascial restrictions.
3. Desensitization with Care: Once physical discomfort has been addressed, you can work on gently reintroducing clippers in a calm, patient manner.
4. Check Equipment and Techniques: Ensure your clippers are sharp, quiet, and create minimal vibration. Use light, confident strokes to avoid aggravating sensitive areas.
Understanding the physiological connections in your horse’s body is crucial to addressing what may seem like behavioural issues. The next time your horse resists clipping, consider their neck, shoulders, and fascia—you might uncover a hidden source of pain or discomfort, making life easier for both of you.
❗️Remember: Horses communicate through their reactions. Listening to them and addressing their needs at the root cause will always lead to better results and a happier horse.
✂️
Image: Horse and hound.
