Hippotherapy is an evidence-based treatment tool in which a therapist manipulates the movements of a horse to provide carefully graded motor and sensory input. This is accomplished by using different combinations of gait pattern and speed of the horse while varying the position of the client.

The average horse walks at a rate of approximately 100 steps per minute. In a typical therapy session, this results in thousands of neuromotor inputs to the patient. Hippotherapy is combined with other therapy tools/strategies in an intervention plan designed to address the treatment needs of the client. Incorporating hippotherapy into a physical therapy session can serve as a powerful tool for the facilitation of functional movement. (For more information about hippotherapy: go to www.americanhippotherapyassocation.org)

Children (and adults) who have high or low muscle tone, poor postural control, decreased strength and mobility, or impairments in balance, coordination or sensorimotor function can all benefit from incorporating the movement of the horse into a physical therapy treatment plan.

Equine movement, under the direction of a therapist, positively impacts: posture strength balance flexibility coordination sensory processing These are important for activities of daily living and gross motor skills such as walking, running and jumping. In addition, children demonstrate increased motivation and participation during treatment and exhibit social-emotional improvement. They respond enthusiastically to this enjoyable experience in a natural setting. Therapy is FUN and will help children reach their fullest potential!