Did You Know That
Stajduhar Stables is one of the only barns in the state that has a multi-disciplinary team of PT's, OT's and SLP pathologists who are hippotherapists? Also, our therapeutic riding instructors are PT's or PTA's. Please see the Staff page bios.
FAQ
What is Hippotherapy?
Hippotherapy (hippos from the Greek work for horse) is a term which refers to the use of the movement of a horse as a treatment tool by trained physical, occupational or speech therapists to address impairment, functional limitations and disabilities in children and adults with neuro-musculoskeletal dysfunction. The horse is used as a part of an integrated treatment program to achieve functional outcomes.
Who would benefit from hippotherapy?
Children and adults with mild to severe neuro-musculo-skeletal dysfunction can benefit from hippotherapy. Common impairments that are treated with hippotherapy include:
What is Hippotherapy?
Hippotherapy (hippos from the Greek work for horse) is a term which refers to the use of the movement of a horse as a treatment tool by trained physical, occupational or speech therapists to address impairment, functional limitations and disabilities in children and adults with neuro-musculoskeletal dysfunction. The horse is used as a part of an integrated treatment program to achieve functional outcomes.
Who would benefit from hippotherapy?
Children and adults with mild to severe neuro-musculo-skeletal dysfunction can benefit from hippotherapy. Common impairments that are treated with hippotherapy include:
- Abnormal tone
- Impaired balance
- Abnormal reflexes
- Impaired coordination
- Impaired sensorimotor function
- Impaired communication
- Postural asymmetry
- Poor postural control
- Decreased mobility
What are the qualifications of the hippotherapy staff?
Licensed physical, occupational, and speech pathologists that have completed the necessary coursework and certification process outlined by NARHA and AHA are trained to utilize horses as part of their treatment program. NARHA, the governing body for all accredited programs regulates the training process. This training is in addition to the training they received in their professional program for physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech language pathology. We have one NARHA registered physical therapist, one NARHA registered physical therapy assistant, and one occupational therapist in process for becoming NARHA registered. We are also pleased to have the only NARHA SLP in the North Texas area. Please see the staff bios for more information.
What is Therapeutic Riding?
Therapeutic riding uses equine-oriented activities for the purpose of contributing positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional, and social well-being of people with disabilities. Therapeutic riding provides benefits in the areas of therapy, education, sport, recreation and leisure.
Who would benefit from therapeutic riding?
People with physical, mental and psychological impairments may use equine activities – adapted as needed- as a recreation and leisure experience. The emphasis is on an enjoyable and relaxing experience that provides additional therapeutic benefits in the areas of socialization, posture, mobility, and an overall improved quality of life. Individuals may participate in horse-related activities to their maximum ability in an atmosphere of support, structure, and socialization for the primary purpose of the intrinsic enjoyment of the activity.
What are the qualifications of the therapeutic riding staff?
Therapeutic riding is taught by NARHA certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors. We have one Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructors and one Registered Level Instructor on staff. Please see the staff bios for more information about the staff.
What are Stajduhar Stables hours of operation?
Stajduhar Stables is open Monday through Friday and books appointments from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
How long are most therapy and therapeutic riding sessions?
Most sessions are 30 minutes to 1 hour in length depending on the needs of the client.
Does the rider have to wear a helmet?
Yes. In compliance with NARHA guidelines, a helmet will be provided for all clients while on horseback. We will help the client adjust to wearing a helmet. All of our helmets are NARHA approved helmets.
How do I dress for my therapy or therapeutic riding session?
In the winter or cooler weather, layering clothes works best to stay comfortable. In the summer time, you may wear shorts. Because you will be in a barn, close toed shoes are a must. No sandals, please. AFO’s with tennis shoes are acceptable.
Will we ride if the weather is bad?
We have a covered arena, so we do not have to cancel appointments. We leave it to the parent’s discretion to cancel or re-schedule therapy if the weather conditions would adversely affect your child, i.e. it is too cold even in the covered arena. We will not ride if it is a lightning storm.
Do I need to call if I need to cancel therapy?
Because the nature of our business is so volunteer intensive, we need as much advance notice as possible so that we may also cancel volunteers if needed.
Is Hippotherapy and Therapeutic Riding covered by insurance?
Hippotherapy is physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy using the horse as a treatment tool; therefore, if your insurance has rehabilitation benefits, your therapy sessions may be covered. Our billing department will be glad to verify your insurance coverage and discuss your benefits. CLASS and In Home and Family Support also have hippotherapy benefits.
Therapeutic riding is not covered by insurance, however, CLASS and In Home and Family Support have therapeutic riding benefits. We also accept private pay. Call us for prices for lessons.
How do I know what my child needs – Hippotherapy or Therapeutic Riding?
Call us and we will help you decide which program is best for your child. If it is hippotherapy, we will need a prescription for physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy from the doctor. Therapeutic riding does not require a doctor’s prescription.
What paperwork do I have to fill out to begin?
Go to the Forms section of our website to download appropriate forms. Please note that all riders must have the doctor sign the second page of the rider’s medical history form stating that there is no medical contraindication for the client to ride a horse. In compliance with NARHA, your prescription and paperwork must be re-submitted annually.
Does Stajduhar Stables schedule in sessions?
No, currently, we are open for operation year round. We do close on specific holidays.