HIPPOTHERAPY

What is Hippotherapy?

Hippotherapy is a treatment approach provided by specially trained Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists, that uses the movement of the horse based on principles of classic hippotherapy, neuromotor function and sensory processing.

It is a treatment that uses activities on the horse that are meaningful to the client.  It provides a controlled environment and graded sensory input designed to elicit appropriate adaptive responses from the client.

It does not teach specific skills, but rather provides a foundation of improved neuromotor function and sensory processing that can be generalised to a wide variety of activities outside of treatment. Hippotherapy is used primarily to achieve physical goals but may also effect psychological, cognitive, behavioral and communication outcomes.

Hippotherapy is used by licensed health professionals having a strong background in posture and movement, neuro-motor function and sensory processing.


Benefits

Normalises muscle tone

Lengthens muscles

Improves symmetry

Develops balance reactions

Develops dynamic postural stability

Improves body awareness

PSYCHOLOGICAL

Improves self esteem

Improves confidence

Improves motivation

Increases attention span

Develops human-animal bonding