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Hippotherapy in Down SyndromeHippotherapy in Down Syndrome? Nope, nothing to do with the hippos at the zoo! Hippotherapy is the term used in describing physical, occupational, and/or speech therapy with the help of a horse. How is this possible you ask? "Because horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves the rider's body in a manner similar to a human gait, riders with physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength.For individuals with mental or emotional disabilities, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience and self-esteem. " NARHA
Physically, hippotherapy can improve balance, posture, mobility and function. Hippotherapy may also affect psychological, cognitive, behavioral and communication functions for clients of all ages..... However, hippotherapy is not for every client. Each potential client must be evaluated on an individual basis by specially trained health professionals. americanequestrian.com Although many people associate hippotherapy with physical therapy, hippotherapy as a speech and language therapy strategy is growing more common. Hippotherapy uses a horse to accomplish traditional speech, language, cognitive, and swallowing goals. Carefully modulated, well cadenced equine movement offers an effective means of addressing speech and language deficits through facilitation of the physiological systems that support speech and language function. Utilizing hippotherapy, appropriate sensory integration strategies have been integrated into the treatment to facilitate successful communication. Sensory integration via hippotherapy simultaneously addresses the vestibular, proprioceptive, tactile, visual, olfactory, and auditory systems.Wikipedia
Sam's Hippotherapy Experience with Pepsi and Spot at Stajduhar Stables. According to the NARHA ( North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, Inc.) individuals with the following diagnoses have participated in and benefitted from hippotherapy.
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