Hippotherapy vs Therapeutic Riding - Childrens TherAplay Foundation, Inc.

Hippotherapy vs Therapeutic Riding

The horses walk provides sensory input through movement, which is variable, rhythmic, and repetitive.
The resultant movement responses in the patients are similar to human movement patterns of the pelvis while walking.

Why Use A Horse As A Therapy Tool

The variability of the horse's gait enables the therapist to grade the degree of sensory input to the patient, and then utilize this movement in combination with other treatment strategies to achieve desired results. Patients respond enthusiastically to this enjoyable experience in a natural setting.

Hippotherapy
(Physical, Occupational or Speech Therapy)

• Hippotherapy is not a horseback riding lesson. It is physical, occupational or speech therapy, which is prescribed by a physician and delivered by a team that includes a licensed, credentialed therapist.

• Hippotherapy is completed by a professional therapist (occupational therapist, physical therapist or speech language pathologist), in conjunction with a professional horse handler and a specially screened and trained therapy horse.

• There is direct hands-on participation by the therapist at all times.

• The horse's movement is essential to assist in meeting therapy goals.

• The goal of Hippotherapy is for professional treatment to improve neurological functioning in cognition, body movement, organization and attention levels.

• Hippotherapy is a one-on-one treatment and generally occurs year-round until the client meets discharge criteria.

• In Hippotherapy, the treating therapists continually assesses and modifies therapy based on client's responses.

• Horse influences the patient.

• Goal is to achieve functional gains and enhance life skills.

Illustrated by Hartsough McDonald

"We are so thankful to the staff, horses and donors of TherAplay who are helping to make our daughter "Hannah" happier and healthier."

--Hannah's parents

Therapeutic Riding
(Adapted Recreational Horseback Riding)

• Therapeutic riding is recreational horseback riding lessons adapted to individuals with disabilities.

• Therapeutic riding is completed by a professional horseback riding instructor in conjunction with volunteers.

• In Therapeutic riding, individual is often taught riding lessons in a group format, which runs in "sessions". The instructor must respond to the group as a whole, in addition to fostering individual success.

• There is occasional hands-on assistance by the riding instructor and/or volunteers, but the instructor usually teaches from the center of the arena.

• Horses used for therapeutic riding instruction have been screened to make sure they have appropriate temperament for his job.

• In Therapeutic riding, the emphasis is on proper riding position and rein skills.

• Rider influences the horse.

• Goal is to teach riding skills.

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