What is Hippotherapy?

Originating from the Greek word “hippos,” Hippotherapy literally means “treatment with the help of a horse”.  Hippotherapy is an overall term used to describe the use of the horse in treatment to achieve functional outcomes. 

Hippotherapy has been used as a form of treatment in Europe, particularly in West Germany and Switzerland.  The potential for disabled individuals to benefit and succeed in riding was first noted when a polio victim won an Olympic dressage medal in the post World War II games.

Today, licensed health professionals with strong backgrounds in posture, movement, neuromotor function and sensory processing have realized the benefits of utilizing the three dimensional movement of the horse to improve the condition of their clients.

Occupational, physical and speech therapists use the horse as a treatment modality.  The movement of the horse, along with tradional therapy intervention influences muscle tone, encourages muscle action, and improves vestibular reactions, sensorimotor integration and midline postural control.  Positive psychological, social, emotional and behavioral effects make hippotherapy a fun and self-esteem boosting experience for the mild to severely disabled individuals of all ages.