OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SERVICES
The horse's pelvis has a similar three-dimensional movement similar to the human's pelvis at the walk. The horse's movement is carefully graded at the walk in each treatment for the patient. This movement provides physical and sensory input which is variable, rhythmic and repetitive. The variability of the horse's gait enables the therapist to grade the degree of input to the patient and use this movement in combination with other treatment strategies to achieve desired therapy goals or functional outcomes.
In addition, the three-dimensional movement of the horse's pelvis leads to a movement response in the patient's pelvis which is similar to the movement patterns of human walking. A foundation is established to improve neurological function and sensory processing, which can be generalized to a wide range of daily activities and address functional outcomes and therapy goals.
The benefits of the horse in Hippotherapy is the movement of the horse is a means to a treatment goal. The horse's movement promotes active responses in the patent. Variations in the horse's movement as directed by the therapist, promote variations in patient responses which are intended to affect function.
THE ROLE of the HORSE
Derived from the Greek hippos (horse), "Hippotherapy" literally refers to Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy or Speech Therapy services that incorporate the use of equine as a part of their comprehensive treatment plans for their clients. The concept of Hippotherapy finds its earliest recorded mention in the ancient Greek writings of Hippocrates.
HIPPOTHERAPY is OCCUPATIONAL, PHYSICAL, OR SPEECH THERAPY services that incorporates the strategy of equine movement or interactions to promote improved functional skills in their clients. Hippotherapy is ALWAYS part of the comprehensive therapy plan of care. The licensed, board-certified therapist utilizes the unique characteristic movements of a horse to provide carefully grade motor and sensory input. Hippotherapy was established to improve neurological function and sensory processing, which can be generalized to a wide range of daily activities. Therapy on Hooves provides Occupational Therapy and Hippotherapy.
HIPPOTHERAPY
Each patient needs permission (Doctor’s Order) to start receiving our services. The “Physician Packet” can be downloaded, printed, and given to your doctor to fill out. We also need the patient or parent to fill out the “Patient Packet” that gives us insurance information and release forms. A “Patient Bill of Rights” is included.
Please see above to review the qualification for occupational therapy services and Hippotherapy.
Occupational Therapy Evaluation (First visit to program) - $160
Occupational Therapy Re-Evaluation (yearly or after new prescription has been issued) - $100
Occupational Therapy Session - $80
*All pricing subject to change.
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Physically, not only does the natural gaits of the horse stimulate muscle movement within the human body, the rhythms also force the rider to find their center of balance. Hippotherapy is seen as a successful way to address balance strategies, dynamic postural stability, muscle strength, muscle control, bilateral integration, circulation, and endurance. Mobility of pelvis, spine and hip joints are also successfully addressed along with modification of muscle tone.
Mentally, Hippotherapy increases spatial awareness or body awareness with aids in bilateral integration and midline orientation. Improved motivation, arousal and attention and sensorimotor integration are also improved through Hippotherapy. Problem solving along with timing and coordination of motor strategies are all addressed which have all shown to increase motivation along with self confidence and self-esteem.
Emotionally, the need to communicate with a horse calmly promotes emotional awareness, emotion regulation, self-control, and impulse control. A horse's reliance on a highly sensitive limbic system, combined with a refined system of nonverbal communication make them extremely sensitive to human emotions, mirroring feelings and provide feedback. Self-confidence that comes from Hippotherapy is astonishing. Belief in one's functional capabilities are heightened from the first-time riding.
The Benefits of Hippotherapy within Occupational Therapy Services
