Hippotherapy

Hippotherapy is a form of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language therapy that uses equine movement as part of an integrated intervention program to achieve functional outcomes. It is a treatment strategy used by therapists to improve their patients' cognitive, physical, social, and occupational skills.

History

The term "Hippotherapy" is derived from the Greek word "hippos" which means horse. The use of horses in therapy dates back to ancient Greek times, where horse riding was used as a rehabilitative treatment. In the 1960s, the practice was formalized in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland before spreading to the United States in the 1970s.

Methodology

In Hippotherapy, the movement of the horse influences the patient. The therapist controls the horse's movement and carefully grades these movements to use sensory and motor input for treatment. The horse's rhythmic, repetitive movements improve balance, coordination, strength, and body awareness.

Benefits

Hippotherapy has been found to improve gross motor function, balance, gait, posture, and quality of life. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, including cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and autism spectrum disorder.

Professional Associations

The American Hippotherapy Association (AHA) and the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) are two organizations that provide guidelines and certification for therapists using Hippotherapy in their practice.

See Also

• Equine-assisted therapy
• Animal-assisted therapy
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech-language therapy