Hippotherapy is a physical, occupational and speech therapy treatment strategy that utilizes equine movement. Hippotherapy comes from the Greek word “hippos,” meaning horse. It is part of an integrated treatment program to achieve functional outcomes.
In Hippotherapy, the patient engages in activities on the horse that are enjoyable and challenging. In this controlled environment, the therapist modifies the horse’s movement and carefully grades sensory input. A foundation is established to improve neurological function and sensory processing. This foundation can be generalized to a wide range of daily activities. The horse’s walk provides sensory input through movement, which is variable, rhythmic, and repetitive. The resultant movement responses in the patient are similar to human movement patterns of the pelvis while walking. 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. Even though Hippotherapy may not be appropriate for everyone, individuals with, but not limited to, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, Traumatic Brain Injury, Developmental Delays, and learning or language disabilities all benefit from Hippotherapy.
Also responding enthusiastically are our volunteers. Ninety percent of our volunteers are youth from the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch. Without their support, our Hippotherapy Program would not be the same. While they are volunteering, they are building their own self-worth, trust, respect, relationships, and responsibility by helping someone in need. Several of our youth start out the program season quiet, disengaged, and unmotivated. As the season goes on, they are the first ones at the barn in the mornings, eager to bring in and prep the horses, having appropriate conversations with the patients and their families, and walking around with their heads held high with smiles on their faces. It is truly a miracle to see them transform.
