Equine sports massage can be beneficial during rehabilitation from injury or as a preventative measure to reduce the risk of injury due to muscle fatigue or strain. A combination of massage strokes, stress point therapy and cross-fibre friction are used to release and soften tense tissues. Myofascial release may also be performed and passive stretching techniques are applied to the muscles where appropriate. Massage can be used separately or in combination with McTimoney techniques for a more tailored session.