Hippotherapy
Hippotherapy is a specialized treatment approach where licensed physical and occupational therapists use the natural movement of a horse to help children build strength, coordination, balance, and confidence.
As the horse walks, its movement gently challenges the child's body in ways that are difficult to replicate in a traditional clinic setting. This rhythmic, purposeful motion helps improve posture, core strength, motor planning, and overall body awareness—all while your child is engaged in a meaningful and motivating experience.
What is Hippotherapy?
How Does it Work?
Each session is thoughtfully designed around your child’s individual goals. Our therapists use different mounted positions and activities to target specific skills, such as:
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Sitting forward to build trunk control, posture, and alignment
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Side sitting to strengthen core muscles, challenge obliques and improve balance
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Riding backward to develop body awareness, challenge vestibular awareness and improve postural reactions
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Prone over the horse (on the belly) to support head control, weight-bearing, and sensory processing
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Hands-and-knees positions to encourage upper body strength, strengthen core and challenge motor planning
Therapists also guide children through position changes during sessions, which helps challenge balance, coordination, and endurance in a fun and engaging way.
Why is Hippotherapy so Effective?
The horse’s movement provides constant, gentle input to the body—helping children make progress in areas that can be difficult to address in traditional environments. Because therapy happens through movement and play, children are often more motivated, engaged, and willing to try new skills.
We also carefully match each child with a therapy pony based on movement style, size and temperament, ensuring the best possible therapeutic benefit.
What to Expect
Sessions take place in our indoor arena, allowing for consistency throughout the year. Each child is supported by a dedicated team, including:
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A licensed therapist
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A trained horse handler
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Side-walkers for added safety and support, as needed
This team approach ensures that every session is safe, supportive, and tailored to help your child succeed.
Does my child have to engage in Hippotherapy to receive OT or PT services at Quest?
Absolutely not, we have many clients that attend Quest for traditional OT or PT services. No horse required!