Hippotherapy literally means “treatment with the help of horses”. At Beyond Boundaries treatment is conducted by licensed and credentialed physical, occupational and speech therapists who have strong backgrounds in hippotherapy principals, posture, movement, neuromotor function and sensory processing. Our therapists are nationally registered in hippotherapy through the American Hippotherapy Association and The North American Riding for the Handicapped Association. During sessions specific motor, sensory, communication and social goals are addressed through activities on the horse that are enjoyable and challenging. Following hippotherapy, carryover of skills are addressed during meaningful activities in our therapy room or with the horses in the arena.
Research is conducted by our therapy staff and, at times, with instructors from the physical therapy department at UCA. We study and document, locally and nationally, the positive outcomes that hippotherapy has on our clients.
What are the Benefits?
• Positive muscle tone changes
• Improved balance responses
• Improved coordination
• Improved communication
• Improved postural control
• Increased mobility
• Increased motivation and attention
• Increased social skills and self-esteem
The focus of this program is to teach specific riding skills coupled with games and activities that will enhance each client’s leisure skills and build self confidence and socialization.
