Animal Fascial Manipulation (AFM) involves deep manual friction techniques over specific points on the deep muscular fascia and these points are always at a distance from the actual site of pain. For this reason the method can be applied safely, even during the acute phase of a dysfunction. Deep friction can modify the extracellular matrix and restore gliding between the fascial layers.
The importance of fascia in the Animal Fascial Manipulation Model AFM (animal fascial manipulation) can directly positively affect:
Postural alignment
Muscle recruitment
Fascial gliding capacity, improving the movement capacity of fascial layers and areolar tissue.
Proprioceptive feedback and control
Correct movement patterns and dysfunctions
Improve performance and wellbeing
Relive pain and stiffness
Why choose AFM? AFM is one of the few methods that evaluate the horse from a global point of view, which is why the history of the horse is so important. E.g. a 10 year old ligament sprain can be the cause of a seemingly unrelated pain elsewhere in the trunk. AFM by way of anatomy and physiology of the fascial system, reveals a direct connection along fascial planes that are responsible for connecting the entire body. The location of pain is often misleading with regard to causation. Every horse is recognised as an individual and rarely are horses with similar 'complaints' treated the same way. AFM attempts to create homeostasis to allow the body to heal itself. The decision where to treat is based on case history, movement, palpatory verification and clinical reasoning.