Phoenix: Thermotex Treatment for Tension

Horse: Phoenix, 9-year-old Andalusian Mare

Treatment: Thermotex (Infrared Light with heat)  to Release Tension

Part 1:
I used the blanket and neck wrap on Phoenix the following day for 45 minutes. She tends to hold tension in her back and neck.

Being an Andalusian, it takes a while for her to become stretchy and elastic under the saddle because she only wants to collect and go. I was amazed when I rode her after her Thermotex session; she immediately stretched over her back and into contact instead of bracing.

The biggest surprise of all was our canter transitions! She can be a bit temperamental in the transition, but as soon as I put my leg back to ask for the canter, she immediately picked up the most lovely canter without hesitation in both directions! She was also able to perform her lateral work with ease.

Part 2: 
I took Phoenix to a dressage clinic a couple of weeks after getting the Thermotex Blanket. On the first day of the clinic, I ran out of time before my ride and couldn’t give her a treatment. She was stiff, not wanting to engage, and it took most of our ride to get her supple and pushing from behind.

On the second day, I made sure to give her a treatment with the blanket, and as soon as I was on, the clinician noted a difference in her suppleness and push from behind just at the walk! Before the third ride, I also did a Thermotex treatment. I expected Phoenix to be tired and behind my leg, as she usually is at the end of a clinic. However, I had a very eager horse under me, and we accomplished more than I had expected during our ride!

The Thermotex has become a staple in my routine for maintenance, clinic, and competition preparation.

Updated with edits 2023