Questions and Answers about Hippotherapy?

What is the difference between

Hippotherapy and Therapeutic riding?

The term therapeutic riding is used to describe the recreational aspect of riding. As a recreational activity, riding skills are instructed by horse professionals. Hippotherapy is a medical treatment. During a hippotherapy session, therapeutic goals are addressed to increase neuromuscular function by licensed and trained physical, occupational, and speech therapists.

How does Hippotherapy work?

The natural movement of the horse is used to help individuals increase their functional abilities. The horse’s movement translates through the person, causing many parts of the body to do work. This response is sometimes achieved without the person’s awareness of their effort. The therapist can modify the horse's movement to promote specific responses within the person. This approach to treatment uses meaningful activities and specific goals, while providing the individual with a joyful experience, in a natural setting.  

Why a horse? 

The horse's walk provides sensory input through movement, which can be variable, rhythmic, or repetitive. The resultant movement responses in the patient are similar to human movement patterns of the pelvis while walking. The variability of the horse's gait enables the therapist to grade the degree of sensory input to the patient, and then utilize this movement in combination with other treatment strategies to achieve desired results. Patients respond enthusiastically to this enjoyable experience in a natural setting.  

What are the benefits of Hippotherapy?  

Hippotherapy improves:  

·         Joint  

·         Mobility  

·         Balance  

·         Muscle tone  

·         Head and trunk control  

·         Strength  

·         Motor skills and coordination  

·         Cardiovascular conditioning  

·         Postural control  

·         Symmetry  

·         Sensory integration  

·         Communication skills  

·         Psychological, cognitive, and behavioral functioning  

Who can benefit from Hippotherapy?  

Individuals approximately 2 years of age and older can benefit from hippotherapy. They can have a variety of diagnoses including, but not limited to:  

Medical Conditions  

 ·         Autism Spectrum Disorder  

 ·         Cerebral Palsy  

 ·         Developmental Delay  

 ·         Genetic Syndromes  

 ·         Learning Disabilities  

 ·         Sensory Integration Disorders  

 ·         Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke 

 ·         Speech-Language Disorders  

 ·         Down’s Syndrome 

 ·         Multiple Sclerosis 

 ·         Scoliosis 

 ·         Spina Bifida 

 ·         Mentally Challenged 

Impairments  

·         Abnormal muscle tone

·         Impaired balance responses

·         Impaired coordination

·         Impaired communication

·         Impaired sensor motor function

·         Postural asymmetry

·         Poor postural control

·         Decreased mobility