FÜRÜZAN MELİS BAĞATIR
ABOUT ME
As an Equinology Equine Body Worker in Turkiye,
I specialize in providing essential maintenance and care to horses to enhance their physical well-being. Utilizing my expertise in equine anatomy, physiology, and massage techniques, I work closely with horse owners and trainers to develop customized plans that address each horse's unique needs.
This sport encourages us to form a partnership with our horses, and our ability to excel largely depends on our horses' capabilities. With a passion for enhancing equine performance, I am dedicated to helping horses feel their best so they can perform at their highest level.
Horseback riding has been a big part of my life for the last six years. As an equestrian enthusiast with a deep fascination with show jumping, I have a lot of experience on trails up to 1.10 meters. I currently own 3 horses and spend most of my time at the barn tending to my horses’ day-to-day needs.
I have been professionally involved in many sports where the body is always active, such as snowboarding, archery, skiing, and horseback riding. Throughout this time, I have accomplished several national and international achievements within these fields. Massage has always been a helpful element to ensure my body's resistance to these tense and stressful sports. It became evident that, akin to how my performance improves when I am relaxed, a similar beneficial correlation also exists for horses. Therefore, while I was researching equine massage and its benefits, I came across an American and British-based Equine Body Work institute; Equinology institute. I was even more intrigued by the Equionology Institute's equine massage approach as it alluded to the equine musculoskeletal scientific structure.
After completing my year-long certification program,
my expertise was further enhanced by acquiring additional certifications in pertinent fields to broaden my educational background in horse health. To improve myself further, I am continuing my studies at the College of Animal Physiotherapy, aiming to get a diploma as an equine physiotherapist.
I am deeply committed to continuing education to offer top-notch care for every horse I work with. Whether you’re a competitive rider or simply seeking to improve your horse’s well-being, I am here to support and assist you in your pursuit.
SERVICES
Equine body work consists of static and dynamic observations and palpations to identify abnormalities, a full body massage to relax the muscles but also feel for any areas of tension, checking trigger and stress points along the way.
Therapeutic ultrasound can effectively treat muscle, tendon, ligament, joint, and bone conditions in horses using longwave/low-frequency technology.
During sessions, the Epiony Heat Blanket and Epiony Thermal Wand are used to provide deep and effective heat therapy to the body. Heat therapy is ideal for relaxing deep muscle tissues, improving blood circulation, and alleviating pain. The Epiony Heat Blanket targets larger areas, while the Thermal Wand is designed for smaller, more focused regions.
As a practitioner, I use Equigate to manage my practice. It allows me to schedule appointments, maintain detailed records of each horse's session history, send automated reminders for follow-ups.
These techniques are performed to increase the natural range of motion of joints and to eliminate movement restrictions. These practices are used to reduce stiffness in the joints, relax the muscles, and allow the body's structure to move more comfortably. With properly executed techniques, the load on the musculoskeletal system is reduced, performance is enhanced, and the risk of injury is minimized.
Phototherapy is a non-invasive, drug-free device that uses red, infrared, and blue light to assist in the healing of injuries, wounds, and infections.
This session is conducted using the Equiband system, designed to improve your horse's core muscles and movement mechanics. The session includes the application of the Equiband and a detailed explanation of its correct usage.
During the session, the practitioner does not lunge the horse or provide riding services. The focus is solely on the application of the band and providing training on its proper use.
ACTIVE AFTER SPRING 2025
Equine kinesiology taping is a physiotherapy treatment and has various applications. It can be applied between competitive elements of many international equine events to speed recovery and improve endurance. In recreational riding, it alleviates discomfort from acute and chronic injuries.
Bemer Horse Set boosts your horse's health for prevention, aids recovery after illness, enhances suppleness during training or competition prep, and supports healing from muscle or tendon injuries.
This session is conducted using Equestic technology to analyze the horse's movement dynamics. At the end of the session, a gait analysis report is prepared and delivered to the client in written form within 3-5 business days. This analysis provides detailed insights into the horse's movement patterns and biomechanical performance.
INTENDED
Neurokinetic Therapy (NKT) for horses is a method that addresses the link between the nervous system and muscle function to correct pain and dysfunction. Through gentle muscle testing, NKT identifies and retrains imbalances, relieving discomfort and enhancing movement.
CREDIDENTIALS
ONGOING
The Fundamentals of Equi-Taping
Practitioner Certification
(INTENDED) JULY 2025
EQ900E: Progressive Advanced Horse Anatomy
INSTRUCTOR: Debranne Pattillo, MEEBW, MSc.(hon)
SEPTEMBER 2024
Advanced Myofascial Release & Kinetic Chains
INSTRUCTOR: Angela Hall
2024
EQ103: Advanced Equine Soft Tissue Techniques, Intro to Spinal Mobilization, Rehabilitation Concepts and Clinical Reasoning
INSTRUCTORS:Dr. Nicole Rombach, APM (ITEC), PG AM, MEEBW, CCBW, MSc., PhD, Debranne Pattillo, MEEBW, MSc.(hon)
2022-2023
EQ100E: Equinology Equine Body Worker (EEBW)
Certification Course
INSTRUCTOR: Debranne Pattillo, MEEBW, MSc.(hon)
2023
Online Certification
Introduction to Saddle Fitting
INSTRUCTOR: Debranne Pattillo, MEEBW, MSc.(hon)
2023
EQ25: Introduction to Clinical Research Methodology and Analysis
INSTRUCTOR: Dr. Nicole Rombach, APM (ITEC), PG AM, MEEBW, CCBW, MSc., PhD
2023
AOPP General PEMF I Certificate
&
AOPP Large Animal PEMF Certificate
2023
2022
Online Certification
INTENDED
The Academy of Animal Sports Science (AASS)
Online Certification
Evidence-Based Equine Rehabilitation (EBER)
INSTRUCTORS: Dr. Dietrich Von Schweinitz, BSc, DVM, MRCVS (UK), Dr. Grant Miller, DVM (USA), Debranne Pattillo, MEEBW, MSc. (hon), Dr. Carrie Schlachter, VMD, DACVSMR (USA), Dr. Rachel Buchholz, DVM (USA), Dr. Nicole Rombach, MSc, PhD (USA), Dr. Dagmar Berner, DrMedVet, Dipl. ECVDI, MRCVS (UK), Dr. Anne Bondi, Phd (UK), Dr. Emanuelle van Erck, MV, PhD, ECEIM (Belgium), Dr. Barbara Crabbe, DVM (USA), Dr. Clair Thunes, PhD (USA), Dr. Sue Dyson, VetMB, PhD, DEO, FRCVS (UK), Ruth Mitchell, PT, CMT, NCTMB, EEBW (USA), Dr. Henry O’Neill, MVB, DVM, MS, Dipl ACVS, MRCVS (UK), Dr. Camie Heleski, MS, PhD (USA)
WHAT IS EQUINE BODY WORK?
This text was taken from Equinology Institute website.
This unique hands-on system addresses the whole body, implementing specific manual palpation methods to assess soft tissue and symmetry of muscle and structure, and utilizing detailed static and dynamic evaluations. Different bodywork techniques — including sports massage, soft-tissue mobilization, stretching, range of motion and activation exercises, as well as “focal” point work (stress and trigger points) — are combined to provide optimal support for horses working in every discipline. Reflecting academic precision in reference to functional equine musculoskeletal anatomy, the Equinology® Approach stands out because it is comprehensively anatomically referenced.
BENEFITS OF EQUINE BODY WORK
The rivalry in equestrian sports is in a constant state of intensification. The moment is upon us to focus our energy on the fundamentals - the paramount essence of meticulous preparation and attentive after-care. Equine Body Work effortlessly embodies this philosophy.
Improved Performance
Equine Body Work sessions are capable of enhancing your horse's gait and range of motion, as well as improving its stamina.
Rehabilitation
When your horse suffers any injury, immediate action must be taken. Postponing treatment can intensify the wound and prolong recovery time. It's essential to include an Equine Body Work practitioner in your horse's healthcare team. Joining forces with your equine vet and horse physical therapist, the Body Work specialist provides massages that can speed up recovery, as well as enhance strength, flexibility, and mobility.
Prevention
Undeniably, the primary purpose of Equine Body Work is to prevent injuries. A practitioner in this field is capable of identifying initial indicators of potential problems, such as muscle rigidity and spasms. By addressing these symptoms promptly, one can potentially bypass the discomfort and expenses associated with injury treatment and rehabilitation.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD EQUINE BODY WORK SESSIONS BE ARRANGED?
The regularity of Equine Body Work sessions relies greatly upon the complexity of your horse's sporting or occupational activities, as well as their current level of training. It is suggested to schedule these sessions pertinently every 3 to 4 weeks to maintain an optimum level of equine health and performance.
For those who compete earnestly with well-defined objectives, a biweekly Body Work session for their horse(s) is highly recommended.
In the case of extraordinary equines that participate in superior-level competitions or spirited racehorses, it is strongly advised that they should indulge in Body Work sessions on a weekly basis. Embrace this golden opportunity to ensure your horse performs at the zenith of its extraordinary potential.
WHEN IS IT RECOMMENDED TO HAVE BODY WORK SESSIONS?
IT IS ESSENTIAL FOR YOUR HORSE TO ENGAGE IN LIGHT ACTIVITY ON THE DAY OF, AS WELL AS THE DAY AFTER BODY WORK.
Following the Equine Bodywork session, it is essential that your horse is either hand-walked for a minimum of 10 minutes within a span of 2 hours, or involved in mild activities that include only trotting and cantering. Such measures assist in preventing potential sensitivity the subsequent day while also promoting the parallel alignment of fibers through movement.
ACTIVATION, MOBILIZATION AND STRECHING
Mobilization offers numerous benefits that can enhance a horse's overall well-being and performance. Incorporating mobilization into regular bodywork sessions can make a significant difference in how a horse feels and performs over time. Some key advantages include:
Improved Flexibility
These exercises help increase the range of motion in a horse’s joints and muscles. This flexibility contributes to smoother, more fluid movement.
Enhanced Circulation
Movement exercises stimulate blood flow to muscles and tissues, which speeds up recovery and promotes healing in areas affected by strain or fatigue.
Injury Prevention
By maintaining or improving joint mobility, these techniques can reduce the risk of stiffness or injuries caused by restricted movement, especially in athletic horses.
Balanced Movement
Regular application of these exercises can improve body awareness and coordination, encouraging more symmetrical, balanced movement patterns that benefit performance in various disciplines.
Pain Relief
These techniques can alleviate discomfort caused by tight muscles or joints. This relief helps the horse feel more comfortable, reducing stress and improving behavior during exercise or work.
Mental Relaxation
Horses often find these exercises relaxing. The rhythmic movements can reduce tension and help create a positive association with training and handling.
THERAPEUTIC ULTRASOUND
Therapeutic ultrasound employs low-frequency/longwave ultrasound therapy to facilitate the healing of muscles, joints, tendons, and bones.
Therapeutic ultrasound is useful in treating several muscular, tendon, ligament, joint, and bone conditions in horses. It stimulates the horse's natural auto-repair processes, which leads to a natural resolution of the indicated pathologies.
When used in conjunction with other veterinary treatments, ultrasound can enhance and accelerate the effects of such treatments. For example, ultrasound treatments can follow PRP injections (platelet-rich plasma injections) or stem cell therapy injections to speed up and aid tissue to regenerate and repair.
PHOTOTHERAPY USAGE DURING SESSIONS
The text and photos were taken from the Optimus Lumina website.
Phototherapy is a non-invasive, drug-free device that uses red, infrared, and blue light to assist in the healing of injuries, wounds, and infections.
Red light therapy is a safe and effective treatment for various conditions, including pain relief, inflammation, wound healing, and skin conditions.
Blue light is particularly effective at killing bacteria on the skin and gums. Its anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties help decontaminate wounds, which can be then treated with red light therapy to improve recovery.
What are the benefits of the Phototheraphy?
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Reduces fatigue and improves muscle function (1)
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Reduces inflammation with red and infrared light therapy (2)
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Improves circulation and blood flow (3)
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Increases tissue oxygenation (3)
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Relaxes the nervous system
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Releases beneficial chemicals in the body, such as nitric oxide, and stimulate ATP production
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Improves energy, metabolism, and cellular functioning
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Supports the body in maintaining health and wellness
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Stimulates the body’s own innate healing processes (4)
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Decreases pain and discomfort (4)
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Supports pets living with chronic conditions (5)
Research on red light therapy dates back over 100 years: in 1903, Danish scientist Niels Ryberg Finsen received a Nobel Prize for treating tuberculosis using ultraviolet light. Light therapy treatment was widely used before antibiotics were introduced.
[1] Rigby, J. H., Hagan A. M. (2020), A Novel Blue-Red Photobiomodulation Therapy Patch Effects on a Repetitive Elbow-Flexion Fatigue Task. Journal of Sports Rehabilitation https://doi.org/10.1123/jsr.2018-0339
[2] Hamblin M. R. (2017), Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation.
AIMS Biophysics https://doi.org/10.3934/biophy.2017.3.337
[3] KGupta A.,Vecchio D., Sadasivam M., Hamblin M. R., Pam N., Avcı P. (2013). Low-Level Laser (Light) Therapy (LLLT) in Skin: Stimulating, Healing, Restoring
[4] Gruyter W. (2012) Equine wound healing: influence of low level laser therapy on an equine metacarpal wound healing model. Photon Lasers Med 1
[5] Oshima Y., Coutts R. D., Badlani N. M., Healey R. M., Kubo T., Amiel D. (2011) Effect of light-emitting diode (LED) therapy on the development of osteoarthritis (OA) in a rabbit model. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy Volume 65, Issue 3
BEMER HORSE SET
This text was taken from the BEMER website.
Bemer sessions have been proven[1,2] to have a positive impact on your horse’s body. It strengthens your horse’s health in terms of prevention and promotes regeneration after illness. It improves suppleness during training or when preparing for competitions. It can also provide valuable support during the healing process, including recovery from muscle tension or tendon/ligament/muscle injury.
PEMF sessions are not considered performance-enhancing as it uses the body's own systems to increase performance using their own processes without the addition of any outside substances.
What are the positive effects of BEMER set on horses?
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Improves microcirculation [1]
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Supports parasympathetic processes in the organism [1]
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Promotes relaxation and regeneration after exertion [1]
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Increases performance [1]
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Optimizes exercise through increased suppleness [1]
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Helps prevent and increase defense against infection [1]
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Speeds up the recovery process after an injury [2]
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Improves the anesthetic experience and regeneration after surgery [2]
[1] King, M., Seabaugh, K., Frisbie, D. (2022). Effects of a Bio-Electromagnetic Energy Regulation Blanket on Thoracolumbar Epaxial Muscle Pain in Horses. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jevs.2022.103867
[2] Effects of BEMER physical vascular therapy in horses under training. A randomized, controlled double blind study. Francesca Daia, Emanuela Dalla Costaa, Alessia Giordanoa, c, Eugenio U.L. Heinzla,Piermario Giongob, Gracia Pagnozzi, Simona Cannasa, Giulietta Minozzia, Michela Mineroa, Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Universita di Milano (in publication)
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S003452882200025X
EPIONY HEAT THERAPY
Heat therapy is an effective method that provides deep relaxation to the body, benefiting both physical and mental well-being. It helps reduce muscle tension, promoting tissue relaxation and improving blood circulation, which accelerates the healing process. Additionally, it alleviates joint stiffness, enhances flexibility, and plays a vital role in pain management. The soothing effect of heat reduces stress and fosters a sense of overall comfort. The Epiony Heat Blanket and Thermal Wand deliver these benefits efficiently, targeting both large areas and specific regions for a tailored therapy experience. This ensures that horses experience targeted relief in needed areas while achieving a sense of overall relaxation and recovery.
EQUIBAND SESSIONS
This text was taken from Equiband® Pro website:
Core musculature stabilizes the horse’s back in movement. Core strength helps to prevent the development of back pain and injuries. The Equiband®Pro system has been designed specifically to stimulate receptors in the horse’s skin and hair follicles.
In response to this stimulation, the abdominal, oblique, sublumbar and deep neck and back muscles are activated. These muscles stabilize the spine, and engage the hindquarters during movement.
Regular use of the Equiband®Pro system strengthens this core musculature, making it easier for the horse to work with an optimal posture, which reduces the risk of pain and injury due to hollowing or instability of the joints in the neck and the back.
The Equiband®Pro system (est. 2011) is a completely unique design that promotes continuous core activation during ridden, lungeing, or in-hand exercise. It is suggested for use with a programme of ground-based core activation and strengthening techniques, and only with veterinary and/or licensed therapist guidance.
We all want to find the optimal rhythm for our horse. We are looking for that relaxation and accuracy. To achieve muscle symmetry, we need to balance our work on both the left and right reins, and we need to build endurance and strength.
*This text was taken from the equestic website:
The Equestic SaddleClip is the world’s leading, multiple award winning, consumer grade, equine sports wearable.
The Equestic SaddleClip assists riders in finding the optimal training regime and has early warning indicators for potential injuries or strain.
The Equestic SaddleClip is an equine motion sensor which is attached to your saddle and records all of the horse’s movements during your trainings.
Equestic is permitted to use at FEI Competitions and Tests
With the current version of the FEI Dressage Guidelines and the USEF Dressage Equipment information, the Equestic SaddleClip is now permitted in USEF Dressage Competitions, as well as in USEF Dressage FEI Tests and FEI Dressage CDIs: a significant leap forward of Equestic Mission – “To Help Riders Perform with Care.”
Equestic Sessions
This session is conducted using Equestic technology to analyze the horse's movement dynamics. The Equestic clip device is attached to your horse, and it tracks your regular riding session throughout the training. At the end of the session, a gait analysis report is prepared and delivered to the client in written form within 3-5 business days. This analysis provides detailed data on the horse's movement patterns and biomechanical performance.
REPORTS
As a practitioner, I use Equigate to manage my practice. It allows me to schedule appointments, maintain detailed records of each horse's session history, send automated reminders for follow-ups. Equigate helps me focus on providing the best care for the horses I work with while keeping my practice organized and running smoothly.
Permitted Equine Therapist (PET) is a new category of personnel introduced in 2018. PETs are permitted to carry out ‘Restricted Therapies’ during official FEI events in which they have been trained, according to the Veterinary Regulations 2018, Chapter VI.
These restricted therapies include electrical current devices (e.g. TENS machines, NMES and H-wave); therapeutic ultrasound therapy; vacuum therapy; and physical therapies (e.g. physiotherapy, acupressure, trigger point massage, myofascial release, osteopathy, chiropractic and spinal manipulation). PETs are required to register with the FEI, providing information on their experience and training and a reference from an licensed FEI Veterinarian.
The International Association of Animal Therapists (IAAT) is the membership organization for animal therapists in practice.
IAAT's objective is to promote excellence in animal therapy. It is an inclusive organization that values cooperation and collaboration.
IATT's Mission Statement:
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To provide Vets, Owners, and Insurance Companies with a register of trained professionals
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To embrace other professionals so that we can all move forward as a united front
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To contribute to ensuring appropriate standards in the animal therapy professions
A MEMBER OF IAAT
SINCE 2023
A MEMBER OF IEBW SINCE 2022
There are different schools and levels of training in the field of equine bodywork.
IEBWA members hold the highest level of qualification within the profession. In addition to their studies, they complete annual continued education relevant to equine/animal sports therapy. IEBWA members work with fellow professionals, to best support your animal’s care in a team setting.
Owners can be assured that the IEBWA practitioner of their choice has attained a high standard of training and that the practitioner works within the ethical scope of practice, related to equine/animal sports massage.
The International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) is a not-for-profit organization that chiefly aims to facilitate research into the training of horses to enhance horse welfare and improve the horse–rider relationship. ISES actively interacts with all members of the equine community, not just academics.
A MEMBER OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR EQUITATION SCIENCE
SINCE 2024
LONGTERM CONSISTANCY
BEATS INTENSITY
Achieving success in any endeavor requires sustained effort, discipline, and a commitment to excellence. It’s not about going all out in one go but putting in steady effort that will take you far.
READINGS
Here are some studies and essays about the benefits of sports massage on horses
The Benefits of Equine Massage Therapy
By Brittany DeVries
Evaluating the Benefits of Equine Massage Therapy: A Review of the Evidence and Current Practices
Article in Journal of Equine Veterinary Science · September 2009
Efficacy of Manual Therapies on Back Pain (AAEP 2011)
By Erica Larson
A Preliminary Study on the Effect of Massage to Reduce Stress in the Horse
By Sebastian Mcbride and
Andrew James Hemmings
WEBSITE DESIGN AND TEXTS © F. MELİS BAĞATIR, 2024
