E Q U I N
hippotherapy equipment
role | product designer
H I P P O T H E R A P Y
Hippotherapy is an innovative form of therapy that utilises the horse itself as a means of recovery and development for individuals with various disorders and disabilities. Hippotherapy equipment, a central element of this form of therapy, is designed and tailored to offer support and comfort both to the clients, as well as to the animal.
The horse, thus acting as a therapy partner, presents a series of specific characteristics, such as a rhythmic gait, three-dimensional movement and bodily heat, which can have a significant impact on the pacient's mental and physical health.
RESEARCH
Hippotherapy offers two kinds of benefits - the three-dimensional and rhythmic movements of the horse engage the rider's muscles in a way that cannot be replicated by other means; the vibrations of the horse's steps stimulate the internal ear, thus improving balance. The physical benefits of hippotherapy are especially helpful when it comes to psychomotor disabilities, such a cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy.
Hippotherapy is also useful in cases of psychomotor and psychiatric disorders, such as those stemming from being on the autism spectrum. In these cases, the sensory stimulation obtained via hippotherapy (olfactory, tactile and auditory stimuli) is followed by behavioral therapy during a session.
Depending on each disability and each session's objective, the therapist chooses the equipment - be it a hippotherapy saddle, vaulting, saddle pad or game-type elements.
CONCEPT
SOLUTION
3D PRINTED MODEL
VIDEO
Thank you.
