Incorporating equine movement (EM) and related activities in an occupational therapy treatment plan is a treatment strategy that provides a unique opportunity for experiential learning.

 

Like a therapy ball, equine movement is directed in a rhythmic flow to elicit postural and sensory processing responses. The incorporation of equine movement can take the best the therapy ball has to offer and bump it up a notch. EM participants experience consistent rhythmic input for longer periods of time than with a therapy ball providing the participant greater opportunities to experience, process, and respond to motor, sensory, and neurological input.

 

Consistency and predictability of multi-dimensional equine movement encourages appropriate adaptive responses and supports clients in developing greater core strength, postural control and shoulder stability-all of which are building blocks for fine motor skills and self care.