Why Therapeutic Horseback Riding?

While both Therapeutic Horseback and Hippotherapy  feature horses and individuals with disabilities working together, therapeutic horseback riding is focused on recreational riding and relationships with horses as an activity that brings whole person benefits.

The ability to control a horse as well as one’s own body inspires self-confidence and responsibility. From the beginning, riders learn balance, coordination and self-assurance while receiving therapeutic muscle stimulation. The physical benefits come naturally; riding reaches deep muscles not accessible through conventional physical therapy. Special activities are done on horseback, which compel riders to stretch, reach and bend, developing eye-hand coordination. As a result, confidence is gained by mastering a skill normally performed by able-bodied people.

Other benefits include improved risk-taking abilities, development of patience, emotional control, and self-discipline. Riding is also perceived as an educational and enjoyable experience. Additionally, exercise away from clinics is something to which a true value cannot be assigned. The program not only involves riding, but also includes lessons in caring for, and the welfare of, the horse and its equipment. This develops the students’ sense of responsibility.

In contrast, a hippotherapy session is undertaken with a licensed physical, occupational, or speech therapist. Sessions are generally approved and paid for by insurance or Medicaid and riders may have more severe medical needs. Therapeutic horseback riding addresses those who would still greatly benefit, but who do not qualify for insurance coverage.