The term hippotherapy refers to how occupational, physical and speech therapist uses the movement of the horses and the novelty of non-clinical environment in combination with traditional treatment principles to enhance outcomes.
The three-dimensional movement of a horse has proven extremely valuable in increasing trunk strength, control and balance. It is so like a human gait that, for those who struggle to walk or cannot walk, it imitates the rhythm needed for their own independent steps. The use of hippotherapy in an OT/PT/ST treatment setting has been proven to improve fine & gross motor skills, core strength and postural control, sensory integration, attention skills, visual perception and communication skills. The unique relationship formed with a horse can help interpersonal relationships, improved self-esteem and self-regulation.
A Focused Brain is the only clinic in central Mississippi that can provide Hippotherapy.
Our Sensory Trail
What's the Difference?
(OT, PT, SLP) utilizing the movement of the horse as a treatment strategy to address functional goals
Licensed occupational, physical, or speech therapist
Land-based activities and functional skills individualized to the specific needs of the patient
Episodes of care model: plan of care individualized to patient, progress is periodically reassessed to determine need for ongoing services
Recreational activity providing horseback riding lessons for individual with special needs
Certified adaptive riding instructor
Skills associated with riding a horse
Individual, semi-private, or group lessons
Can become a lifetime activity