Western Michigan University

Program Information

Degree Offered

Graduate Certificate Program

Format: Campus

Program Description:

Students receive training in the use of the horse as a therapeutic modality in the treatment of individuals with handicapping conditions. Hippotherapy is a valuable therapeutic modality for a physical or occupational therapist working with patients having such movement dysfunction as cerebral palsy, cerebral vascular accidents(strokes), multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, and spinal curvatures. Desired treatment outcomes of hippotherapy are improved vestibular reactions, increased sensory integration and normalization of muscle tone,coordinated movement, improved vertical head-to-toe neurological connections, and midline control.Improvements in postural control and trunk equilibrium reactions can be achieved more easily and more often on the horse than in the clinic.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: No

Classification: Doctoral/Research Universities - Extensive

Institution Sector: Public

Locale: Small City

Size & Settings: 20,000 and above