Who benefits from hippotherapy?
People at almost all levels of function can benefit from the use of the horse as a treatment tool. The horse’s movement causes the core muscles to work to help the child maintain his or her balance and stability. Various levels of support are used for children with little trunk or head control. Children with sensory issues or who are on the spectrum benefit from the connection with the horse and the sensory input that is given. Some, but certainly not all, of the patients’ diagnoses include: Down Syndrome, Rhett’s, cerebral palsy, Williams’ Syndrome, Autism, sensory processing disorder, hypotonia, tethered cord, and many more.