Hippotherapy (from the Greek 'hippos', meaning horse) literally means treatment with the horse. The use of the moving horse as a therapy tool utilises the rhythmic, three-dimensional movement of the walking horse. A client appropriately positioned on the horse experiences significant sensory input. This positions them ideally to develop postural control, equilibrium reactions, balance, co-ordination and spatial orientation. There are also psychological, speech, language and cognitive benefits. Hippotherapy is a treatment carried out by, or under the direction of, a specially trained Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist.

Due to the fact that a qualified Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist is required to be involved in Hippotherapy sessions this discipline is currently only available at our Carine, South West and Swan Valley centres.