Welcome to R.E.I.N.B.O.W. THERAPY
R.E.I.N.B.O.W. Therapy provides occupational therapy in a hippotherapy setting in Massachusetts to children with special needs...........R.E.I.N.B.O.W stands for:
Rhythmical
Equines
Improve
Neuromusculoskeletal
Balance and
Overall
Well-being
R.E.I.N.B.O.W. Therapy is located at Windrush Therapeutic Equitation Farm in Boxford, Ma. (www.windrushfarm.org) and Liberty Tree Farm in Acton, Ma (www.Libertytreefarm.com).
WHAT IS HIPPOTHERAPY?
The word “hippos” is the Greek word for horse and the treatment with the assistance of a horse is called HIPPOTHERAPY. Hippotherapy is conducted by a therapist (Occupational, Physical, or Speech) who uses the three dimensional movement of a horse’s gait to provide rhythmical or variable movement. This allows the therapist to carefully grade the degree of sensory input to the client while using various therapy activities as part of an integrated treatment to reach individualized functional goals. Hippotherapy services are reimbursed by some medical insurances.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
Hippotherapy is used to treat children as young as 18 months to adults with varying disabilities such as Developmental Delays, Sensory Integrative Dysfunction, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Learning or Language Disabilities, Genetic Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Attention Deficit Disorders, Neurological Diseases, Cerebral Vascular Accident (stroke), Down Syndrome, Spina Bifida, emotional disturbances, and visual and hearing impairments.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
The benefits from receiving hippotherapy may include improvement in:
*balance responses
*postural control
*normalizing muscle tone
*coordination
*flexibility
*cognitive skills
*visual-perceptual skills
*sensory processing skills
*gross and fine motor skills
*self-confidence, emotional strength, emotional bonding
*limbic system function-arousal, focus, and motivation
*communication
WHO PROVIDES HIPPOTHERAPY?
To become qualified to provide hippotherapy, all therapists should participate in the AHA’s (American Hippotherapy Association) rigorous workshops and mentorships. A treatment session typically includes the client, a therapist, a horse leader/NARHA instructor (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association), volunteer(s,) and a specially trained horse or pony.
(339) 206-0110
