Horseback riding therapy (hippotherapy)

Therapeutic horseback riding, also known as hippotherapy or equine therapy, is a rehabilitation strategy which combines physical and occupational therapy with the movement of the horse.  When a horse is moving, the rider has to make adjustments and this enhances the development of their muscular and nervous system. Accommodations can be made for children who cannot sit on a horse without support or assistance, and a therapist will be responsible for guiding and controlling the horse during the therapy. Goals of the therapy can be adjusted as a child learns to respond naturally to the movement of the horse.

Hippotherapy uses the movement of the horse to help develop both physical and cognitive abilities. Physically, those with cerebral palsy may benefit through increasing their strength, balance, posture, coordination, endurance and control. Children can also learn to respond to visual clues while riding which may help improve their attention and visual coordination. There is also often a profound and important emotional benefit associated with simply being around horses. Riders form a bond with the horse and have reported feelings of love and connection with the horse as well as elevated mood and improved self-esteem after each session.

There are always innate risks when working with horses.  Hippotherapy providers who are certified with CanTRA are trained to select and work with horses that are safe and best suited to helping riders with cerebral palsy.  Careful supervision must be offered and wearing a helmet is also essential to participate safely.

To learn more about therapeutic horseback riding and to find information on accredited instructors across Canada, visit CanTRA.

Costs of sessions vary between providers and many equestrian centers provide hippotherapy to children with physical disabilities as part of charitable programs.  However, these programs are not always available as the cost of providing hippotherapy works out at between $115 – $300 per session.