Riding a Horse Can be Therapeutic:
The gentle, rhythmic movements of the horse simulate the walking
movements in the human pelvis during ambulation. These movements
cultivate a sense of balance and coordination in the rider that
is unique to the equestrian sport. Physical therapists use the horse’s
movement to improve posture, balance, strength, mobility and function.
Riding can be challenged
by a number of pathophysiologic factors, some of which a skilled
physical therapist can be of significant help. Active Physical Therapy
has developed a wellness program for the equestrian athlete.
Following
Injury or Illness:
1: |
Have
you been advised to resume riding but you’re not sure how
to safely proceed? |
| 2: |
Have
you had difficulty in resuming riding? |
| 3: |
Does
pain limit your riding or the enjoyment of riding? |
| 4: |
What
frustrates you the most about riding-related injuries? |
Conditioning
the Equestrian Athlete:
1: |
Does
inflexibility or weakness limit your riding capability? |
| 2: |
Would
you like to minimize the risk of overuse strain? |
| 3: |
Do
you want to improve your riding performance? |
| 4: |
What
would you like to improve physically, that would make you really
happy if you accomplished it in the next year? |
"If a horse can
be trained to provide a safe and enjoyable ride, a rider can be
trained to have a safe and enjoyable ride."
Initial
Consultation:
Thorough subjective analysis
History of onset
Previous incidence of the same problem
Other medical problems as relevant to therapy treatment
Current level of physical function
Limitations of physical mobility and flexibility
Limitations of strength
Limitations of endurance and stamina
Therapy treatment care plan
Objectives and short and long term
goals
Treatment:
Manual therapeutic techniques as needed to augment optimal functional
performance
Therapeutic
Exercise Instruction That may Include:
Stretching exercises
Upper body strengthening
Abdominal strengthening
Back muscle strengthening
Leg strengthening
Aerobic/endurance
training
Posture training
Body
Mechanics Instruction Including:
Horse
handling
Grooming
Ride preparation
Ergonomically sound
riding
Tack considerations
Gait recommendations
Therapeutic riding
Stabilization training
Mobilization riding
|
