McKenna Farms Therapy Services

HippoTherapy

Hippotherapy

What is Hippotherapy?

The word "hippotherapy" comes from the Greek word "hippo" meaning "horse." Hippotherapy refers to how occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech-language pathology professionals use 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.

Best practice dictates that occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech-language pathology professionals integrate hippotherapy into the patient’s plan of care, along with other therapy tools and/or strategies.

Why a Horse?

The unique combination of the horse, the horse’s movement, and non-clinical environment produces an extraordinary effort on all systems of the body. The therapist can modify the horse’s movement to promote specific responses within the individual. It is a treatment approach that uses activities on the horse that are meaningful to the individual and specifically addresses their functional goals. What’s more enjoyable than receiving therapy on the back of a horse?!

What are the Benefits?

•Motor skills and coordination

•Muscle tone

•Head and trunk control

•Posture

•Strength

•Balance and symmetry

•Joint mobility

•Sensory integration

•Communication skills

•Cardiovascular endurance

•Relief from pain and muscle spasms