Hippotherapy

Hippotherapy uses evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning in the purposeful manipulation of equine movement as a therapy tool to engage sensory, neuromotor and cognitive systems to promote functional outcomes. The three dimensional movement impulses of a horse at a walk simulates the human gait pattern. This sensory-motor input stimulates the human to respond with adequate movement reactions. Interacting with the horse is highly motivating, stimulating the desire to be participatory rather than a passive onlooker.  It has additional social and emotional benefits.

Hippotherapy facilitates sensory and neuromotor development. It promotes an upright body posture, natural muscle tone regulation and mobilization. Hippotherapy improves the sense of balance as well as general fitness and strength. The focus of the hippotherapy sessions depends on the extent of the physical disability and the personal motivation of the client.