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Therapy/Hippotherapy
The term “equine assisted therapy” describes the use of the horse, its movement and the equine environment by licensed therapists to achieve treatment goals. (close)
The specific practice of using the horse’s movement is called “Hippotherapy,” which is defined by the American Hippotherapy Association (AHA) as “a physical, occupational or speech therapy treatment strategy that utilizes equine movement.” With specific treatment goals, which are reviewed and approved by the child’s physician, and in coordination with trained instructors, our therapists direct the movement of the horse to address impairments, functional limitations and disabilities in patients and neurological, muscular and skeletal dysfunctions. This strategy is used as part of an integrated treatment program so that children with special needs can better function in everyday life.
Our therapists use horses as their primary treatment modality. The use of horses offers unique benefits to patients who often have been unresponsive to other therapies. The horse’s gentle rhythm and symmetrical gait stimulate the body, muscles, spine and pelvis in a way similar to the human walk, improving balance and coordination and increasing strength and flexibility. While the mechanical benefits of exercising on specially trained horses are substantial, it is the physiological bonding between horse and child that often yields astonishing, seemingly magical results, a concept which is consistent with recent research into the establishment of neurological pathways through emotional reinforcement of physical experiences. The horse’s kind, gentle nature and the relationship formed between horse and patient give the patient confidence and build self-esteem. The horse and the beauty of the outdoor environment provide a multitude of physical and psychological benefits.
For each treatment session the therapist selects the horse and the tack (equipment) best suited to that particular child and the goals of that child’s treatment plan.
