The goal of this technique is to soften or relax the hind end and encourage the horse to relax each leg and drop their pelvis. This allows the horse to release tension in the sacroiliac joint, lumbar area and sacrolumbar junction. 

In this session, Jim demonstrates the 6 Hind End Points:

- Under-the-Tail Point

- The Sacroiliac (SI) Point

- The Hip Joint Point

- The Pelvic Point

- The Stifle Point

- The Pubic Symphysis (PS) Point

The levels of touch we use on these points vary from air gap and egg yolk to—in some cases—grape. We follow the responses just as we did with the bladder meridian technique. Rather than using pressure, we are in a sense sending neurological signals to the horse’s body to relax and release tension.

It's important to remember that while working on the hind end points, we are not massaging or pushing on these points. We are simply sending signals to the horse's nervous system to let go of tension in the hind end.

You will see while experimenting with these points that certain points work better on certain horses, and in different orders and combinations, so it isn't necessary to do them in any particular order. However, it works well to start with one of the Under- the-Tail Points first.  This is a good way to begin the process of asking the horse to release tension on the sacrum. The under-the-tail point is also a good way to slow yourself down to a slow pace; very important to be able to use these points effectively.

Where you go after the under-the-tail point? This will depend on what the horse does or tells you with his responses and what your intuition tells you. This is why it is important to slow down and observe the horse’s responses.

Every so often, while you are waiting on a spot for some sign of a release, consciously soften your hand while paying very close attention to the horse’s eyes. As you soften your hand, you will see a slight softening in the eyes. Consciously keep your hand soft while using these points.

If the horse drops his hip while you are focusing on any point, go to the dropped side and use the points on the dropped side to encourage the horse to drop even further. If you are using a very light touch, the slightest blink or twitch will tell you that this is a good place to stay.

When the horse gets tired of standing on the one leg and shifts to the other, go to any of the points on the newly dropped side and encourage the pelvis to relax even further. As you watch the pelvis drop on one side, you will notice that it will drop lower than before. Also notice that there will be more and more of a relaxed twist in the lumbar or lower back as tension let’s go there. And you will sooner or later notice larger release responses such as yawning or shaking the head that go along with it.

You may also use points simultaneously, such as the hip joint and the sacro-iliac point to encourage a drop on one side.

It’s important to slow down and give the horse time to release tension. The muscles and structures of the hind end are much bigger than those of the front - it’s the motor of the horse and the tension that builds up here can be deep-rooted. 

If your horse has performance issues like lack of impulsion, inability to round or step-under, unwillingness to canter on a particular lead, or mystery hind-end lameness, and you’ve ruled out any injury or veterinary issue, tension in the hind end might be the cause. 

Safety Note: Be very aware of your horse’s ears when approaching these points. Go gently and watch the ears! If they pin their ears - stop! Horses with a lot of tension in this area can be VERY sensitive, particularly with the Under-Tail, Stifle Point and PS Point.