Pediatric Hippotherapy for Muscular Dystrophy
in Pea Ridge, AR
For children with muscular dystrophy, it can be very difficult to handle daily tasks and achieve key developmental milestones. At Unbridled Pediatric Therapies, we combine traditional physical therapy with therapeutic horse-riding (hippotherapy) to help kids with muscular dystrophy build strength and improve mobility in a fun and motivating way.
What Is Muscular Dystrophy?
Muscular dystrophy is a condition that causes muscles to get weaker over time. It happens because the body is missing or has a problem with the proteins that help muscles work properly. Without these proteins, muscles can’t stay strong and begin to break down.
There are different types of muscular dystrophy, but the most common one in children is Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This type usually starts with weakness in the legs and hips, and over time, it can affect other muscles in the body.
Common Symptoms of Muscular Dystrophy
The most common symptoms of muscular dystrophy in children include:
- Muscle weakness, especially in the legs and hips
- Delayed motor skills like walking
- Trouble with balance and frequent falls
- Scoliosis due to weakened back muscles
- Difficulty breathing deeply
How Pediatric Physical Therapy Combined with Hippotherapy Can Treat Muscular Dystrophy
Pediatric physical therapy is a proven way to support children with muscular dystrophy. But when you combine it with hippotherapy, children can achieve better outcomes in less time than with clinic-based treatment alone.
Here are some of the reasons why you should consider equine-assisted physical therapy for your child:
1. It improves muscle strength and posture
As the horse moves, its gait mimics human walking patterns, which provides gentle but consistent stimulation to the child’s body. The constant engagement of core muscles during the ride can assist with building strength and stability, which can lead to improvements in mobility and endurance.
2. It stimulates key areas of the brain
A horse’s walking pattern closely resembles the natural movement of the human pelvis during walking. In a typical 20-minute session, the horse takes approximately 3,000 steps, which offers repetitive motion that supports the development of new neural pathways in the brain. This can help improve motor planning and coordination.
3. It increases body awarenes
The movement of the horse encourages children to develop better proprioceptive awareness (how their body is positioned in space). By constantly adjusting their body to stay balanced and engaged with the horse, children improve their ability to perceive and control their movements.
4. It’s fun!
The excitement of riding a horse motivates children to participate in their therapy sessions. This new and rewarding environment gives children a fun way to make progress in therapy so they can make lasting improvements on their physical skills for a lifetime of success.
Schedule a Free 15-Minute Phone Consultation Today
Want to find out how pediatric hippotherapy can support your child’s development? Take advantage of our free 15-minute phone consultation! During this consultation, you’ll speak with a member of the Unbridled Pediatric Therapy team who can answer your questions and explain how your child can benefit from equine-assisted physical therapy.
Give us a call at (479) 250-9838 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation today!
