All cross the province people of all ages with physical, mental and emotional challenges are working on horseback to strengthen their bodies, build strong senses of self-confidence and overcome a wide range of physical and developmental difficulties. Riders with special needs and medical conditions can greatly benefit from participating in therapeutic riding programs or working closely with a trained hippotherapist.
Therapeutic Riding
Therapeutic riding can improve balance and co-ordination, strengthen muscles, increase circulation and coordination. Riders also experience independence from crutches and wheelchairs to experience the rolling movement of the horse to achieve their personal therapeutic goals.
Some benefits of therapeutic riding include:
- Improvement of muscle tone, motor skills and overall strength
- Enhanced mobility, balance, circulation and co-ordination
- Increased concentration and improved learning skills
- Independence, social integration and life skills
- Strong bonds of trust, respect and partnership with the horse
Therapeutic riding instructors specialized training through the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA), Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) or other accreditation bodies to provide safe and effective support.
Hippotherapy
Hippotherapy is a medically based treatment tool treatment strategy that also uses the movement of the horse to address impairments, functional limitations and disabilities in patients with neuromotor and sensory dysfunction.
The rhythmic and repetitive movements of the horse the helps patients with neuromuscular disorders such as cerebral palsy or brain injury sensory processing. Unlike therapeutic riding, patients may be positioned sitting backwards, sideways, or lying down on the horse’s back to achieve the desired result.
Working in concert with physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech/language pathologists trained through the American Hippotherapy Association, patients, work to attain a wide range of function goals.
Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy Links
Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA)
Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA)
Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH)