As a physical therapist, massage therapist, equine sports massage therapist, and lifetime animal lover, Ruth Mitchell is able to combine knowledge with love while caring for the equine population.

Ruth, a Texan, received her graduate degree in physical therapy from The University of Iowa in 1972 and opened a private practice in Dallas in 1978.   She then attended The Institute of Natural Healing Sciences in Colleyville, Texas and became Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork in 1991.

Ruth began her Myofascial Release education in 1987, has taken all of the John Barnes MFR courses (including equine), and was a Senior Instructor/Coordinator, Co-lecturer and Primary Lecturer for John Barnes, teaching over 130 courses for him from 1988-2002.   From 1999 until her resignation in June 2001 she was the Primary Lecturer for the Barnes Equine MFR courses.     

Ruth began working with horses in 1990, is a Certified Equine Body Worker® practitioner (through Equinology®, Inc) and specializes in the equine population.   She is the owner of Equine Therapeutic Center, Inc., now based at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, where she provides therapy for horse and rider.   She uses her biomechanical knowledge to assist in determining a problem with the horse and then primarily uses Myofascial Release techniques to decrease the symptoms and/or dysfunction.   In addition, she uses Red Light Acupoint Therapy, laser, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and specialized taping techniques.   To assist owner, trainer and/or rider in a home program of care she also includes exercises, including stabilization and core exercises for the horse and rider.  

Ruth began teaching for Equinology®, Inc. in 1999.   She has taught Myofascial Release for horses at facilities in California, Virginia, Canada, England, Australia and South Africa.   Additionally she has taught the Equinology, Inc. Equine Body Worker® Certification Course in the United States, England and Australia, and both the canine and human MFR courses in England.  

Ruth’s book, Facilitated Healing through Myofascial Release – Putting the Pieces Together for Horse and Rider was first released in 2001.   The revised second edition is now available.   She will be releasing another book, Canine Myofascial Release in 2009.