Physiotherapy (Hippotherapy)

What is Hippotherapy?

Hippotherapy is a method of treatment used by a physiotherapist, occupational therapist or speech-language pathologist. Hippotherapy does not teach the skill of riding, it uses and manipulates the horse's unique movement thereby affecting the client’s neuromotor, sensory and cognitive systems to achieve functional outcomes. At Hope Haven, this treatment method is part of a therapeutic treatment plan under the guidance of a registered Physiotherapist.

What differentiates Adaptive Riding and Physiotherapy (Hippotherapy)?

Adaptive riding (AR) is defined as teaching the skill of riding adapted to the needs of individuals with unique physical, intellectual or social/emotional disabilities or challenges. The goals of AR may include sport, leisure, socialization, physical and education related. AR programs are lead by CanTRA or PATH Intl. certified horse professionals.

Physiotherapy using hippotherapy does not teach the skill of riding. It uses the horse's unique movement to produce active responses in the client in order to effect their functional goals. This technique is a part of a therapeutic treatment plan under a designated health professional.

There are many cases where a client may be involved in both Physiotherapy (hippotherapy) and AR sessions as they may have both functional or medical goals as well as riding or social goals.

Why use a Horse for Therapy?

The horse has a unique multi-dimensional movement that is highly organized and "lends" itself to our riders. The horse's spine and pelvic movement is very similar to humans. By manipulating the horse's movement characteristics and patterns we can directly influence our client's active movements necessary to achieve their specific goals.

The hippotherapy environment provides a multi-systems experience that can't be reproduced in the regular clinic. These systems include: motor, musculoskeletal, nervous, respiratory, circulatory, visual, touch, hearing, speech, language and cognition. Treatment sessions can be tailored to focus on a select few but as in real life scenarios, clients will learn to organize many systems interacting simultaneously.

How do I Register for Physiotherapy?

You will need to complete the following:

1. Participant Application
2. Professional Referral Form

Once your application is complete we will set up an initial assessment visit to determine your program plan.

Cick here to bring you to the applications page.

For more information, please call 519-986-1247 and ask for Robyn, or email program@hopehavencentre.org