The following are signs indicate that the bodywork is effective and releasing tension:

• Soft eyes (relaxation)
• Deep breathing or sighing
• Licking
• Twitching of muscle tissue

Improvements are usually seen immediately after the massage is completed. Softening of the tissue can be felt and positive changes in movement can be seen. The individual will also feel much more relaxed. However, the improvements are often not maintained because the horse is allowed to regress into old postural habits. To achieve optimal resolution of the problem, it is important to effectively address the root cause(s) of the muscular dysfunction as well.

I have experienced as a therapist that less is often more when performing bodywork and therefore prefer to use less invasive techniques that are highly effective, yet cause the least amount of discomfort and will facilitate lasting and positive changes.

People often believe that the treatment needs to be uncomfortable to be effective, AKA "No pain, no gain" - not so when it comes to good massage therapy. Though it’s possible to have some discomfort, it should be minimized. Animals especially will object to too invasive treatments and generally stop cooperating.