Raemelton Raemelton Therapeutic Riding Program
Raemelton Therapeutic Equestrian Center is devoted to providing equine facilitated therapy to disabled children and adults in Richland County, Ohio and the surrounding areas. We have provided therapy services to individuals with Muscular Dystrophy, Learning Disabilities, Amputations, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Spina Bifida, Spinal Cord Injuries, CVA/Stroke, Oppositional Behaviors, Brain Injuries, Mental Retardation, Hearing Impaired, Visually Impaired, Down's Syndrome, Emotional Disabilities, Autism and Asperger's Disease.
Therapeutic riding programs provide participants with an opportunity to be physically active in ways that they otherwise would be unable. Our students have seen improvements in their balance, coordination and muscle strength, in addition to a higher self confidence, improved communication skills and lengthened attention spans. It is only through our dedicated volunteers, horses and staff, that we are able to witness the miracles that happen daily at our facility. Contact us today, to schedule a pre-participation evaluation of our programs. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.
What is Therapeutic Riding or Equine Facilitated Therapy?
Therapeutic Riding, also known, as Equine Assisted Therapy, Equine Facilitated Therapy, and Riding for the Disabled, is the use of the horse and equine-oriented activities to achieve a variety of therapeutic goals, including cognitive, physical, emotional, social, educational and behavioral goals.
The therapeutic value of horseback riding goes back centuries although the origin of organized therapeutic riding is relatively recently. British physiotherapists first offered riding therapy for wounded soliders at the Oxford hospital during WWI. Since that time, the American Occupational Therapy Association and the American Physical Therapy Association have recognized therapeutic riding as a progressive form of therapy. Horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves the body in a manner similar to the human walking gait. Riders with impaired mobility are taught balance, coordination, and self-assurance while receiving muscle stimulation. Individuals with learning or mental disabilities are motivated to increase concentration, patience, and discipline. The unique bond formed with the horse has also shown to aid in improved interpersonal relationships for those with psychological or emotional disabilities. As a result, all riders can experience increased self esteem and coping skills.
The achievements of Liz Hartel of Denmark are generally regarded as the impetus for the formation of therapeutic riding centers in Europe. Polio impaired Hartel’s mobility but not her spirit. In 1952, she won the silver medal for Grand Prix dressage at the Helsinki Olympics. Medical and equine professional took notice and soon centers for therapeutic riding sprang up in Europe.
Today, nearly every country has some form of therapeutic riding including competitive programs for the disabled rider. The benefits of such activities reach far beyond the physical benefits of equine activities. Students participating in these programs experience growth of mind, body and spirit.
For more information on Therapeutic Riding visit the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association at www.narha.org