Therapeutic horseback riding combines occupational, physical, and/or speech therapy with the fun of riding a horse. Riding does not replace other traditional therapies, but is provided as a part of the child's total therapy program. The benefits from therapeutic horseback riding, especially for children with special needs, are derived from using the movement of the horse to work the muscles of the rider to achieve therapeutic goals. The three-dimensional, rhythmical motion of the horse's movement stimulates and works the muscles of the rider. And because the horse's gait is almost identical to the human gait, the motion of the horse simulates the normal sensory-motor input of walking.

Benefits of therapeutic horseback riding include improvements in:

• Trunk control, balance, muscle tone, and strength
• Range of motion and joint mobility
• Fine motor coordination
• Sensory integration and concentration
• Spatial awareness and perceptual skills
• Cognitive skills
• Speech and language skills
• Self-discipline and self-awareness
• Confidence, pride, and self-esteem

For More Information

For more information about Therapeutic Horseback Riding, or to find a therapeutic riding program in your area, contact:

The North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NAHRA)

Our Students

Our students include children and young adults who have a variety of special needs, including:

• Attention Deficit Disorders
• Autism
• Cancer
• Cerebral Palsy
• Developmental Delay
• Down Syndrome
• Genetic Disorders
• Head Injury
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Pervasive Developmental Delay
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Stroke
• Vision/Hearing Impairment