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 horses 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.
Injury or Illness:
1: Have you been advised to resume riding but youre 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