Hippo-Therapy
Our therapist's are trained by the American Hippo therapy Association.
Our P.T.'s are professional, friendly and love to be around horses.
Hippo (Equine)-Therapy--
Hippotherapy is a physical, occupational or speech therapy treatment strategy utilizing the horses movement to address impairments, functional limitations and disabilities in children with neuromotor dysfunction. Hippotherapy also offers an enjoyable therapeutic experience for the child that cannot be duplicated in the clinic. There is a natural therapeutic benefit that develops when children and horses are together, both physically and emotionally.
Children with a variety of disabilities can be seen including muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, autism, traumatic brain injury, Down's syndrome, genetic disorders, spina bifida, sensory processing disorder, weakness from chemotherapy and developmental delays.
The horse's movement has rhythmicity, symmetry, a dynamic base of support and three dimensional movement, all of which provide the patient with movement experiences difficult to replicate in a traditional therapy environment. The horse's gait pattern is very similar to the human gait pattern. It is this movement experience that allows patients to achieve new abilities and strengths, These include improved balance, muscle tone, strength, endurance, coordination, self confidence, concentration, attention span and sensory processing.
The therapy sessions can be billed to some insurance companies as physical, occupational therapy or speech therapy. However, if you are needing financial support look into Southern Tier Alternative Therapies, (STATINC.org) for a riding scholarship application.
We are pleased to have two Physical therapists working at HHR. MaryLou Sheffield and Beth Parks.
Harmony Hill Ranch is pleased to partner with Southern Tier Alterative Therapies, Inc. (STAT)
STAT is a non for profit organization that helps families in Broome County. They assist with financial support for programs offered at HHR.
For more information go to their web-site at statinc.org.
To find a P.T. or O.T. that is certified to perform hippo-therapy: go to statinc.org for a listing of therapists.
