Hippotherapy is a clinical specialty that differs from therapeutic riding — in Hippotherapy, the movement of the horse influences the movement of the rider. A specially trained therapist (a licensed physical or occupational therapist) evaluates the client, develops specific therapy goals, and works one-on-one with the client. The therapist uses the horse for facilitating the movements and postures for the client. This quality of movement from the horse is the premise for hippotherapy. This is, therefore, a specialized form of medical treatment when a trained therapist develops a care plan for their client using the horse as their primary method of treatment. The on-site gathering room is often used in conjunction with Hippotherapy, depending on an individuals needs. Physical benefits include:
- Improved hand/eye coordination
- More muscle tone
- Better posture
- Improved balance
- Truncal muscles are stimulated by using a variety of movements, allowing speech to come more easily.
For more information call the HHTRC office at 816.697.5400 or complete the 2012 on-line registration form.
A Rider’s Story
When Mundito’s rehabilitation doctor at Children’s Mercy Hostpial suggested that he try hippotherapy, we were a bit surprised and could not imagine how this would work for a boy with severe cerebral palsy who must use a wheelchair and has trouble sitting up by himself and holding his head up. The simplest muscle movements are a struggle for Mundito. But we were intrigued by the idea and having come from rural areas of Mexico we liked the idea of him being out in the fresh air, sunshine and around horses. Once we arrived we learned that he might expect to see improvements in his balance, trunk strength, gross and fine motor awareness and skill, and even his self-confidence. With the help of his therapist, at first Mundito was able to get on the horse facing backwards, and then gradually he worked up to facing forward and having less and less support from the therapist. But after just 5 sessions, he was lifting his own head and holding his head up by himself all around the arena. This was such a huge improvement! He also understood how to sit on the horse after a few sessions, and had a good feel for his horse name “Pablo” after just a few weeks. When the therapist mentioned the idea of Mundito participating in a horse show and competition, we were surprised!! But come October, there he was on a brisk Saturday morning, riding Pablo with his therapist and scoring a blue ribbon for the “Walk and Whoa” Class!! Mundito was decked out in light blue cowboy boots, western shirt and jeans and a belt with his dad’s family name “Arana” woven into the belt. He was definitely dressed for success as a horseman!! Mundito has gained immensely in his self-esteem and confidence because of his equestrian adventures, in addition to the improved physical benefits that he continues to see as a result of hippotherapy! We are very grateful to Janellen and her wonderful, nurturing crew and to the First Hand Foundation (Cerner) for providing a scholarship to finance Mundito’s horse riding and to Dr. Desiree at Children’s Mercy Hospital for suggesting Helping Hands Hippotherapy Program. Ole’!!