| Q: I’ve never heard of Hippotherapy before – what is it? |
| A: Hippotherapy is therapy performed by a licensed therapist with the use of a horse. |
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| Q: How is a horse used for therapy? |
| A: The 3-dimensions of movement provided by the horse, can provide a dynamic environment for physical improvement as well as establish an emotional connection between rider and animal. |
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| Q: If that’s what Hippotherapy is, then what is Therapeutic Riding? |
| A: Therapeutic Riding is performed by a certified NARHA instructor and focuses on the learning of horsemanship and riding skills. |
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| Q: What is NARHA? |
| A: NARHA, North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, is the organization that provides the standards for member centers and is the recognized certifying body for instructors in the field of Therapeutic Riding. It also registers therapists specifically qualified for Hippotherapy in partnership with AHA, American Hippotherapy Association. |
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| Q: I know a little bit about therapy using horses, what are some specific benefits of participating? |
| A: Physical strengthening can be achieved, but also the relaxation of overly stressed musculature (hypertonia) can increase range of motion, especially in the hips and lower extremities. Core muscles are greatly affected by the movement of the horse. Emotional connections can create a positive bonding with animals and learning in general, as well as bridging a connection with others to promote cognitive interaction. The 3-dimensional rhythmic movement, sights, sounds, smells and textures the horses provide allow many opportunities for sensory stimulation and modulation. The recreational environment promotes improvement in all of these areas without it being classified as “work” = it’s “fun”! |
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| Q: What does your evaluation process involve? |
| A: A licensed therapist will interview the participant and family members, make observations about specific functions, and will recommend placement with either Hippotherapy or Therapeutic Riding. It is highly beneficial to provide the most information possible related to goals for participation in this step of the process. |
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| Q: What kinds of things determine if Hippotherapy or Therapeutic Riding is more appropriate? |
| A: Children between the ages of 2 and 4 are recommended to be placed in Hippotherapy. Other developmental, cognitive, and physical issues may require the supervision of a licensed health professional, indicating that Hippotherapy may be more appropriate. |
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| Q: Are there benefits achieved by participating at frequencies less than once a week? |
| A: Yes, there can be benefits achieved by less frequent participation, but to achieve consistent improvements, we recommend weekly participation in the Hippotherapy and Therapeutic Riding program as well as for independent horseback riding lessons. |
