subject: Speech Therapy For Autism - A New Therapy For Autism? [print this page] Speech Therapy For Autism The word hippotherapy is derived from the Greek word "hippo," that means "horse." It describes physical, occupational, or speech therapy too uses the multidimensional movement of a walking horse to stimulate the rider and boost grow balance, well posture, mobility, coordination, and strength. Often, hippotherapy aids mental functioning, improves mood and self-confidence as well. Speech Therapy For Autism The rhythmic and multidimensional movement of the horse provides variable yet repetitive sensory stimulation to patients. That stimulation can be varied and manipulated by a trained therapist to fit a patient's needs and stimulate improved functioning of daily living. For example, physical therapists can use a variety of horse movements to improve gross motor abilities, such as sitting, standing, and walking. According to the American Hippotherapy Association, hippotherapy is indicated for children and adults with mild to severe neuromuscular dysfunction. It aids impairments such as abnormal muscle tone; impaired balance, coordination, and sensory function; postural asymmetry; poor postural control; and decreased mobility. Hippotherapy has been used for conditions such as cerebral palsy (CP), developmental delays, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and autism. Speech Therapy For Autism Hippotherapy has been used in the U.S. since the 1970's. However, it is still considered an experimental and investigational treatment because there is insufficient scientific evidence for its effectiveness in the treatment of CP, autism, and other conditions characterized by motor dysfunction. A recent study by Bass, Duchowny, and Llabre (2009) examined the effects of a 12-week-long therapeutic horseback intervention on social functioning in children with autistic spectrum disorder. Speech Therapy For Autism The results showed improved social interaction and less inattention and distractibility in autistic children. These findings indicate that hippotherapy may have a place in the treatment of children with autism. However, more studies need to demonstrate its therapeutic effectiveness before hippotherapy is widely recommended as a treatment for autism. Don't let your love ones suffer anymore! Lead them out through Speech Therapy For Autism program now!
Speech Therapy For Autism - A New Therapy For Autism?
