September 15, 2011
Saddle up! Theraputic Horseback Riding
Both Washington and Frederick Counties offer opportunities to teach riding skills to people with disabilities. Therapeutic riding is a very beneficial means of exercise and/or rehab for children and adults with a wide range of cognitive, physical and emotional conditions. Currently, the two centers in Washington and Frederick counties are, Star Community Inc. in Hagerstown, Maryland, and Silverado Farm, in Thurmont, Maryland.
Licensed and specialized professionals perform equine assisted activities, often called hippotherapy. Physical, occupational and speech/language therapy treatment strategies utilize equine movements as part of an integrated intervention program to achieve functional outcomes. Equine movements provide multi-dimensional movement, which is valuable due to its rhythmic and repetitive nature. The horse provides a dynamic base of support, making it an excellent tool for increasing trunk strength, balance, overall postural strength and motor planning.
Currently, Star Community Inc. offers equine activities and welcomes their clients’ physical and occupational therapists on site to assist with rehab programs. Their long-range goal is to employ a licensed physical/occupational therapist, who is accredited through the American Horseback Riding Association, to offer full-time therapeutic riding sessions to people with physical and mental challenges.
For more information regarding equine activity programs in your area, contact Ginny Gaylor at Star Community Inc., 301-791-6222, or Debbie Endlich at Silverado Farm, 301-898-3587.