Hippotherapy

Hippotherapy

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Hippotherapy refers to the use of equine movement as a treatment modality by physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists to address impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities in
patients with developmental delays or neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction.

 

 

Why Hippotherapy?

  • Provides highly organized motor and sensory input that is passed from the equine to the patient
  • The horse’s movement is rhythmic, consistent and sustained over time while promoting active responses in the patient.
  • Hippotherapy is used as part of an integrated treatment program to achieve functional outcomes.
  • Licensed therapists engage the patient in activities on the horse that are enjoyable and challenging.
  • In the controlled hippotherapy environment, the therapist modifies the horse’s movement and carefully grades sensory input, establishing a foundation for improved neurologic function and sensory processing.
  • This foundation can be generalized to a wide range of daily activities, making the horse a valuable therapeutic tool for rehabilitation

Who benefits from Hippotherapy?

  • Children or adults who have developmental delays, autism, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, and other neurological disorders.