EQUINE THERAPY AND PHYSIOTHERAPY: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO YOUR HEALTH
What is Equine therapy?
Equine therapy is defined as a therapeutic intervention that uses horseback riding and horse care to treat a variety of medical and psychological conditions. Supervised by trained and certified professionals, such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, and psychologists.
The horse as a therapeutic?
The horse acts as a powerful therapeutic agent due to its ability to transmit three-dimensional movements to the rider. This type of movement simulates the human gait and stimulates muscles that are not activated in the same way on dry land. Furthermore, the emotional relationship that is formed between patient and horse fosters trust, improves self-esteem and facilitates the learning of social and communication skills.
Who is equine therapy intended for?
Equine therapy is aimed at people of all ages dealing with various physical, emotional, cognitive and social conditions.
- Brain palsy
- Neurological injuries (like stroke and multiple sclerosis)
- Spinal cord injury
- Down’s syndrome
- Autistic spectrum disorders (ASD)
- Muscular dystrophies and genetic disorders
- Balance and coordination issues
Why equine therapy?
Equine therapy has been proven effective according to science due to several fundamental reasons:
- Motor and Sensory Stimulation: Horseback riding stimulates three-dimensional movements that mimic the human gait pattern, strengthening trunk muscles, improving balance, coordination and posture. These benefits are especially valuable for people with various physical and neurological conditions.
- Emotional and psychological benefits: Interaction with horses promotes the release of endorphins and neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, improving emotional well-being, reducing stress, anxiety and improving mood. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other emotional problems.
- Development of social and emotional skills: Working with horses encourages social skills such as non-verbal communication, empathy and trust. These skills are crucial for people with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disorders.
- Cognitive stimulation: Taking part in equine therapy activities improves concentration, attention and memory, strengthening cognitive skills in people of all ages.
- Promoting motivation and self-esteem: Achieving goals during equine therapy sessions, such as riding and caring for the horse, increases intrinsic motivation and improves the self-esteem and self-confidence of participants.
- Complement to other therapies: Equine therapy integrates effectively with other forms of medical treatment and therapies such as physical therapy, occupational therapy and psychotherapy, improving overall results by offering a unique and motivating therapeutic experience.
DID YOU KNOW…?
Did you know that Atenea is a mare with an outstanding sporting experience? In 2021, she was champion in the 0.80 category of the XXIV Clásico Caliente Jockey Club and was also crowned champion in the same category in the State Show Jumping Competition. The following year In 2022, he repeated her success by winning the 0.90 category in the State Jumping Competition.
About our co-therapist: Atenea is also certified by DOMECQ as an equestrian therapy horse. She has demonstrated her ability to provide emotional and physical support in therapeutic sessions for children with different abilities, making her an exceptional partner in the world of sports and therapy.
ANDREA BATIZ FABELA
Professional ID: 13668068
Certified by DOMECQ, SEP CONOCER and STPS as an equine therapist.
Certified by Serenity Horse and Human Development Center and Fundazoo as an equestrian therapy instructor.
Email: equinoterapiamexicali@gmail.com
