Why enroll in a therapeutic riding program?
Therapeutic riding offers many mental, social, and physical benefits to the disabled. It often affords the rider with disabilities the opportunity to participate in a sport “on an even field” with able-bodied riders. When asked to describe what they like best about riding, riders with disabilities often say it’s “like being set free” and “empowering.” Parents of riders often report their child has a new-found sense of self esteem and greater confidence in day-to-day living. Who may participate? Children and adults with disabilities such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy, brain injuries, and other physical or mental impairments. Therapeutic riding is not appropriate for everyone, however. Prior to enrolling in the program, the rider’s primary treatment physician must approve the therapy. Once an evaluation has been made, the center will design an individualized therapeutic riding program tailored to suit the rider and achieve reasonable goals. How long are the riding
