Equus Therapeutic, Inc. 651 Henderson Rd., Williamstown, MA
Building Strength on Horseback
Testimonials
My whole life, I have known what horses can give me. They are a tremendous gift. Riding and caring for them keeps me sane, happy, and fit. Currently, riding is one of two forms of exercise that I can partake in which don't make me hurt. When I am going through difficult times, the horses help me escape for a while. Those animals understand unconditional love. They not only understand it, but they practice it. Those animals love you no matter what. They're perceptive. They're receptive. Also, the horse is the only creature alive whose gait mimics the human gait. When a patient's progress has plateaud with traditional Physical Therapy, he or she will still be able to make improvements with the help of riding horses. The horse's gait imposes components of the normal human gait on to you. It helps you get stronger. It helps your balance. It also helps to change the nervous system. The movement of the horse causes the patient's body to move and sends impulses to the brain which then spread throughout the body telling it, “Hey, this is how I'm really supposed to walk.” With repetition through riding, patients can eventually obtain a 'normal' walk.
Cynthia Boudreau, PT
Following a severe car accident and over ten surgeries, I was confined to a wheelchair. When I finally got strong enough to take a few steps, my walking stunk. My legs felt like they were locking up. I was walking like a tin soldier. After a year of therapeutic riding, my legs have become stronger, my joints are less painful, and my balance is greatly improved. When I'm riding, it seems that everything widens somehow, and both legs start to trust each other. My muscles relax and lengthen just sitting on the horse. Overall, riding the horses at Equus Therapeutic has made my new life safer and more independent. I still can't walk that long or that far, but it sure is better than what I had. I know that horses will be a part of my life forever.
Gayle Andrew