It may seem less like therapy and more like
play, but equine-assisted therapy really can
help those with physical and mental disabilities.
While there is little controlled research on the
subject, physical therapists progress notes, as
well as reports from physicians, teachers, and
parents testify to its benefits. These benefits
include improved respiration, circulation,
balance, and body metabolism along with
greater muscle strength and agility. The
warmth and motion of the horse mimicking that
of the human body can also reduce muscle
spasticity in the legs, back, neck and arms.
Mounting, dismounting and grooming are also
useful in enhancing range of motion.
Psychosocial benefits reported are
improvements in self-esteem, self-image, and
interpersonal skills. Many patients also become
more outgoing and autistic children have been
known to communicate spontaneously for the
first time with a horse!
The recreational nature of this program allows a
source of hope for people with disabilities.
They can leave the stardard clinical setting and
enjoy an independence they never thought
would be available to them. While on a horse
they are "normal", able to leave the bonds of
their disabilities...they are free!
play, but equine-assisted therapy really can
help those with physical and mental disabilities.
While there is little controlled research on the
subject, physical therapists progress notes, as
well as reports from physicians, teachers, and
parents testify to its benefits. These benefits
include improved respiration, circulation,
balance, and body metabolism along with
greater muscle strength and agility. The
warmth and motion of the horse mimicking that
of the human body can also reduce muscle
spasticity in the legs, back, neck and arms.
Mounting, dismounting and grooming are also
useful in enhancing range of motion.
Psychosocial benefits reported are
improvements in self-esteem, self-image, and
interpersonal skills. Many patients also become
more outgoing and autistic children have been
known to communicate spontaneously for the
first time with a horse!
The recreational nature of this program allows a
source of hope for people with disabilities.
They can leave the stardard clinical setting and
enjoy an independence they never thought
would be available to them. While on a horse
they are "normal", able to leave the bonds of
their disabilities...they are free!
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Therapeutic Horseback Riding
