Occupational Therapy Services

In-Home ◦ Equine Assisted Therapy ◦ Hippotherapy 

Frequently Asked Questions

According to the American Hippotherapy Association, Inc.: 

“Any licensed PT, OT, SLP, PTA, or COTA who has had additional training in the movement of the horse and the integration of the horse and human movement.  AHA, Inc. maintains a list of therapists who have received specialized training in Hippotherapy.”

 

PT/PTA - Physical Therapist/Physical Therapist Assistant

OT/COTA - Occupational Therapist/Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

SLP - Speech and Language Pathologist

 

Who can provide Hippotherapy?

According to the American Hippotherapy Association, Inc.:  

· “The three-dimensional movement of the horse’s pelvis is within 1-2 cm of the movement of the human pelvis at the walk.  This three-dimensional movement has been shown to affect the Central Nervous System which in turn stimulates the Motor Pathways and the Vestibular System in the Human Brain.  This movement naturally affects all the systems in the human body. “

· “The horse’s movement has rhythmicity and symmetry providing a dynamic base of support and multiple planes of movement.  It provides multi-sensory input, proprioception, movement through space, repetition, and variability.  All of this is provided within a natural environment with the therapist able to modify both the movement of the horse and the environment.  This encourages the patient to shift from his or her current preferred pattern of behavior in order to achieve new functional outcomes/behaviors.  Patients explore, self-organize, make postural adjustments, and problem solve in a highly motivating and natural environment.  The resultant development is an adapted response and the ability to use new movement strategies and incorporate them safely and appropriately in to their normal environment.”

If you have any further questions which have not been addressed above, please contact Chase at:

Phone: 817-312-1100

Email: chase@cadencetherapy.com

How is Hippotherapy different from Therapeutic (Adaptive) Riding?

What makes Hippotherapy an effective treatment strategy?

According to the American Hippotherapy Association, Inc.: 

“Hippotherapy is a medical treatment provided by a licensed PT, OT, SLP, PTA, or COTA.  Adaptive/Therapeutic Horseback Riding is a recreational activity taught by a trained riding instructor.”