Hippotherapy and Therapeutic Riding

Beyond Boundaries offers our clients hippotherapy and therapeutic riding. Although both of these types of therapy utilize horses, they are different. 
What is Hippotherapy? 
Hippotherapy is a treatment that uses the multidimensional movement of the horse; from the Greek word “hippos” horse.  The horse’s walk provides input through movement which is variable, rhythmic and repetitive. Physically, hippotherapy can improve balance, posture, mobility and function.
What is Therapeutic Riding? 
 Therapeutic riding includes activity, riding, learning about the horse, health benefits, physical activity and many other benefits of riding. The purpose of therapeutic riding is to contributing positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of individuals with special needs. 
With this type of therapy,individuals with physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance, and muscle strength. Horseback riding also provides recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors! To learn more about therapeutic riding, visit https://www.pathintl.org/resources-education/resources/eaat/198-learn-about-therapeutic-riding .
This type of therapy may be beneficial for: 
1. Different types of Paralysis
2. Down Syndrome
3. Parkinson's
4. Alzheimer
5. Autism Spectrum Disorders
6. Cerebral Atrophy
7. Cerebral Palsy
8. Cerebral Vascular Accident (stroke) 
9. Developmental Delays 
10. Functional Spinal Curvature (scoliosis) 
11. Traumatic Brain Injury 
12. Sensory Processing Disorders 
There are possible improvements with: 
  1. Joint mobility 
  2. Balance 
  3. Muscle tone 
  4. Head and trunk control 
  5. Strength 
  6. Motor skills and coordination 
  7. Cardiovascular conditioning 
  8. Postural control 
  9. Symmetry 
  10. Communication skills 
  11. Psychological cognitive and behavioral functioning 

 

Visit PATH International to learn more.