There are a great number of effective stretches for the horse that improve flexibility, suppleness and balance in the body. These generally will improve performance and prevent muscle strains.
There are multidirectional stretch positions for the hips, shoulders, neck and back. Stretching is regarded as an essential part of the human athlete's training regimen, and it should be no different for the horse.
The evaluation for a given horse will reveal specific muscles and/or groups of muscles that require focused work, to balance the body and allow the horse to be as efficient in its performance as possible. Some of this can be taught to the owner to allow them to maintenance a problematic tensional pattern. I strive to help with education of owners/trainers for monitoring of a horse's primary issues.
Kelly Flowers MPT, ESMT 502-418-0433