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Therapeutic Riding
According
to the North American Riding for the Handicapped (NARHA), therapeutic
riding “...has been used since the early 1950's in Europe as a
tool for improving the lives of individuals with physical
disabilities.” There is even documentation found in ancient Greek
texts alluding to the use of horseback riding to rehabilitate injured
soldiers. Individuals with almost any cognitive, physical and /or
emotional disability can benefit from a safe and supervised interaction
with equines. Because horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves
the riders body in a manner similar to a human gait, riders with
physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance
and muscle strength. This unique three-dimensional movement cannot be
reproduced by any other means. Therapeutic Riding also provides a
treatment alternative for children who have become burned out on more
conventional therapies. For individuals with mental or emotional
disabilities, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to
increased confidence, patience and self-esteem. The sense of
independence and acceptance found through these activities with the
horse benefits all.
Hippotherapy
Historically,
the therapeutic benefits of the horse were recognized as early as 460
BC. The use of the horse as therapy evolved throughout Europe, the
United States and Canada. The word Hippotherapy comes from the Greek
word "hippos" meaning horse. It is a treatment that uses the
multidimensional movement of the horse facilitated by specially trained
physical, occupational and speech therapists. Together the therapist
and the horse can focus on core strength, head neck control, diaphragm
strength for breath support, muscle spasticity, low muscle tone and
verbal skills benefiting a variety of clients. Specific riding skills
are not taught (as in therapeutic riding), but rather a foundation is
established to improve neurological function and sensory processing.
This foundation can then be generalized to a wide range of daily
activities. To learn more about Hippotheray, click here for the
American Hippotherapy Association AHA.
Why the horse?
First
the motion and atmosphere associated with the horse cannot be
duplicated within a traditional therapy setting. According the American
Hippotherapy Association, the horse's walk provides sensory input
through movement, which is variable, rhythmic and repetitive. The
resultant movement responses in the client 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 client, then use this movement in combination with other
clinical treatments to achieve desired results. Clients respond
enthusiastically to this enjoyable learning experience in a natural
setting.
Our
Hippotherapy program is a partnership with St. Vincent’s. If you
are interested in signing up for Hippotherapy or finding out more
information, please call or email us.
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