Click on the photo for the full January 2016 newsletter!
Hippotherapy is a comprehensive treatment strategy using equine movement offered by specially trained speech, physical and occupational therapists. People often ask, “Why is it referred to as “Hippotherapy?” The root word “Hippo” is Greek for horse and it is believed that treatment with the help of a horse began back in ancient Greece! Contrary to therapeutic riding, Hippotherapy does not teach riding skills. Rather, therapists trained in biomechanics use specific movement of highly trained therapy horses to facilitate functional outcomes. This three dimensional movement of the horse, along with movement patterns and position changes directed by the therapist, facilitates motor, sensory, speech/language and cognitive skills, and helps boost social-emotional development.
Hippotherapy can be used with individuals as young as 2 years of age. Although there are some precautions and contraindications for certain diagnoses, an evaluation by our therapists determines eligibility. Initially, children may be intimidated or fearful of the horse and sometimes, the sensory overload from the sights, sounds and smells can be overwhelming! Naturally, our therapists help the children work through these feelings as part of the therapeutic process. It doesn’t take long for the smiles and even laughter to begin! This motivation becomes a key component to the success of the therapy.
Hippotherapy is an effective way to treat the “whole child” and achieve improvements in balance, adaptive responses, muscle tone, sensory integration, and functional speech and language skills, while fostering a special bond with our equine friends!