Analysis of Motion in Hippotherapy from the Biomechanic Point of View

Overview

Hippotherapy is classified in proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation methods. It makes use of the specific balance area of the horseback. It stimulates posture-reflex mechanisms of the rider and serves to management of balance and movement coordination. The emotional influence is an integral part of the therapy. The paper describes the postural effect of hippotherapy and the problems in the use of sitting and position according to the degree of maturity in postural motor coordination of the rider. The authors describe the movements of pelvis of the rider in individual planes, which is generated by the movements of horseback. A survey of projects going on in the area of hippotherapy with the application of videography is described. Specific outcomes point out the use of biomechanic research methods for the analysis of the horse and rider in hippotherapy.

Key words:
hippotherapy, motion analysis, 3D videography