Hippotherapy/Equine Assisted
Physiotherapy
– the heart of our operations!
Since 2000, we have provided therapeutic horseback riding for children, youth, and adults with disabilities, illnesses, and injuries. This is done either as individual treatments or in a camp setting. We use specially trained horses accustomed to riders with special needs.
A unique treatment
– see the person, not the disability!
Therapeutic horseback riding is a unique treatment that, among other benefits, provides a reduction in muscle tone not achievable by any other method. It is based on the horse’s three-dimensional movement in walk, which in humans resembles the pelvic movement during walking.
Other benefits of the treatment include improved balance, body awareness, strength, and concentration, leading to increased self-confidence. We tailor the treatment to each individual’s unique needs.
Guests will have the opportunity to participate in the horses’ care and, through theory and practice, understand the significance of riding in living and developing an active life. We spend most of the time outdoors, in all kinds of weather.
Long experience as a physiotherapist
– more than just a treatment
Ulrika, who in 1994 completed her training as a so-called equestrian physiotherapist in Denmark, continues her education and completed her “Certificate in Therapeutic Riding from a Physiotherapeutic Aspect” in 2005. For many years, Ulrika has been active on the board of OHI – the Organization for Horse-Supported Interventions, and was one of the first to become OHI-certified. She is also trained as a classifier for “Equestrian Competition for Riders with Disabilities.”
Ulrika has extensive experience as a physiotherapist in child and youth habilitation, but also from primary care and a specialized clinic for back and neck problems, and has conducted therapeutic horseback riding for people of all ages. The ambition and hope are that it should be fun to be here at Söderåsen’s River Farm! The riding should be experienced not only as treatment but also as a leisure activity.