Hippotherapy = the use of a horse as a therapy modality.

Hippotherapy is done by physiotherapists, occupational therapists or speech therapists, it is a treatment strategy that utilises equine movement.  Hippotherapy is part of an integrated treatment program to achieve functional outcomes.

 

To specialise in Hippotherapy the therapist must have undergone specialised training.  In South Africa, the Equine Assisted Therapy Association of South Africa (EATASA) runs courses for therapists.

 

Hippotherapy is a term that refers to the use of the movement of the horse as a treatment strategy, to address impairments, functional limitation, and disabilities in patients with neuromotor and/or sensory dysfunction.  Hippotherapy is used as part of an integrated treatment program.  It is one type of treatment strategy used within a holistic treatment program, always aimed at achieving functional outcomes.

 

Hipptherapy is recognised as one of the more progressive forms of therapy. The horse provides sensory input throught its multidimensional movement which is variable, rhythmic and repetitive. this and the variability of the horse's gait enables the therapist to grade the degree of the sensory input to the patient, then uses this movement in combination with other clinical treatments to achieve desired aims and goals. Patients respond enthusiastically to this enjoyable learning experience in a natural setting, this inspires self confidence, responsibility and team work. The horse and rider develop a special relationship and it helps in patients over coming challenges and area of diffiuculty.  From the begining, patients learn consiously and unconsiously to balance, improve in co-ordination and self -assurance while receiving therapeutic muscle, neurological and vestibular stimulation. 

 

 

Sleepy Hollow Therapy uses Hippotherapy as one of thier tools in the Occupational therapy program.  This is run by Lisa Hare, a

B Sc Occupational Therapist specialising in Hippotherapy.

 

Sleepy Hollow Therapy is one of the bases for the EATASA Hippotherapy Fundemental Courses. 

 

HIPPOTHERAPY PUTS THE FUN INTO THERAPY.