Who's Who!
Wellington based massage therapist and author, Jean-Pierre Hourdebaigt’s newest book was released this month. The book guides readers on how to identify and treat early symptoms of TMJ and related dental problems in their horses. While the book’s title is a mouthful, Equine Massage Therapy for the Equine Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome (ETDS), it is packed with valuable information that horse owners and horse care professionals can really sink their teeth into. While equine TMJ has been identified as an increasingly common problem for horses, Hourdebaigt’s book is the first of its kind devoted to the topic.
The book presents an in-depth explanation of the structures involved in the horse’s TMJ as well as the mechanics of mastication. Then it gives step by step instructions on massage techniques, hydrotherapy and stretching exercises used to relieve the symptoms shown at all stages of TMJ, from acute to chronic. These techniques are extensively illustrated. From its onset, ETDS will interfere with the contact at the bit. In time, it may aversely affect the upper cervical vertebrae in the horse’s neck. These issues can plague show, race and riding horses impeding their ability to perform.
Hourdebaigt is a licensed massage therapist with over 25 years of experience. He is internationally recognized as a pioneer in the area of animal massage therapy and considered to be one of the foremost experts in the field.
By learning the basics in Hourdebaigt’s new book, owners and trainers can practice preventative measures, which can directly affect the well being of their horses. According to Hourdebaigt, the information in the book can be used to enhance treatments administered by veterinarians, equine dentists, equine chiropractors and equine acupuncturists.
Hourdebaigt explains that many horses have dental problems the owners and trainers may not be aware of. There is an array of problems that often occur before an owner purchases a horse. These can range from complications during foaling, poor or nonexistent dental care during the horse’s life, even being kicked or poorly ridden can result in equine TMJ. Because equine widespread TMJ studies are relatively new in the past decade, Hourdebaigt explains that equine TMJ is a more common problem than most horsemen realize. “That is what inspired me to write this book,” said Hourdebaigt, “Knowing these techniques can help horse owners to substantially affect the recovery of the horse and save money and heartache.”
Hourdebaigt writes in a simple, easy to understand style and the book is filled with illustrations that demonstrate the techniques. “What readers can learn in this book will change the way they relate to their horses forever,” Hourdebaigt assures. “Knowing how to recognize the specific signs and symptoms of TMJ will help you detect it early in its manifestation, and consequently save the horse a lot of discomfort,” he added.
Hourdebaigt’s impressive credentials and unparalleled experience are complemented by his energetic approach to teaching. And now horsemen can benefit from his years of experience by reading his latest book on TMJ. More information about Jean-Pierre Hourdebaigt or to acquire a copy of Equine Massage Therapy for the Equine Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome (ETDS) visit: www.massageawareness.com
Photo: Jean-Pierre Hourdebaigt’s newest book enlightens readers on the Equine TMJ.
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