Equine Therapy Why Horses Might Make Great Therapy Animals

Equine therapy, also known as hippotherapy, is a form of animal-assisted therapy that uses horses to aid in treating various conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, and PTSD. It offers unique sensory, physical, and emotional benefits. For autism, it helps improve social functioning and motor skills by engaging multiple senses. In cerebral palsy, it enhances posture and muscle symmetry. For PTSD, it provides emotional support and a sense of control. However, equine therapy is not widely available due to high costs and limited research. More studies are needed to fully understand its benefits.

How does equine therapy differ from traditional animal-assisted therapy?

What is hippotherapy and how is it related to equine therapy?

What are some benefits of equine therapy for children with autism?

What are the physical benefits of equine therapy for patients with cerebral palsy?

In what ways can equine therapy help individuals with PTSD?

Why might equine therapy be less accessible compared to other forms of therapy?

What are some limitations of the current research on equine therapy?