Healing Through Hippotherapy: A Legacy of Love

Children with physical disabilities are benefitting from hippotherapy sessions, a unique form of therapy using horses. Funded by Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, this project is made possible thanks to the generosity of “Siobhan's Legacy of Love," a fund established in memory of Scotland international rugby player, Siobhan Cattigan. Siobhan's family, knowing her love for animals, felt that hippotherapy was a fitting project to support.

Hippotherapy sessions, which take place at the Riding for the Disabled Centre in Glasgow, are a therapeutic approach that uses the natural movement of horses to improve the physical, emotional, and sensory functions of children with disabilities. Led by neuro-physiotherapist Kirsten and supported by a team of volunteers, hippotherapy offers a wide range of benefits to the participating children.

Sofia, 15, has cerebral palsy, which affects her muscle strength and posture, as well as global developmental delay. 

“Hippotherapy has been brilliant for Sofia. She was able to avoid surgery for a knee injury, which we believe is partly due to her hippotherapy sessions. In the short term, the sessions help Sofia relax and co-regulate with the horse she rides, Jake. Over time, we have seen improvements in her muscle strength and posture.”

- Sofia's mum

Six-year-old Anna also has cerebral palsy and began hippotherapy at just eighteen months old to help strengthen and stretch her muscles, as well as improve her balance. 

“Results can take time, but I have no doubt that it helps target muscles that are quite difficult to reach with hands-on physio. I think one of the biggest benefits is that it’s so enjoyable; there’s no resistance because it’s so much fun. Along with the physical benefits, the sessions boost confidence. These horses are incredible, gentle giants and have been wonderful for Anna to work with.”

- anna's mum

Thea, at just three years old, has faced many challenges. As a baby, she suffered up to 200 seizures a day and eventually underwent surgery that successfully stopped the seizures but left her with limited mobility on one side of her body. During her first block of hippotherapy sessions, Thea made tremendous progress.

“She went from being unable to move to shuffling around the floor after her first block of sessions,”

- Thea's MUM

Thea's mum explained that it can sometimes be hard to engage her in regular physiotherapy, but the joy she finds with her hippotherapy pony, Bobby, has made all the difference.

“She does similar exercises on the horse without any complaints, and it’s lovely to see her so happy and settled. The sessions are helping her rebuild strength and movement”.

Physiotherapist Kirsten explains why hippotherapy works so well for children like Sofia, Anna, and Thea.

“The horse’s movement creates a three-dimensional dynamic that works the children's core muscles and improves their overall strength. It also stimulates their sensory systems, promoting confidence and well-being in a non-therapeutic setting.”

Kirsten tailors each session to the needs of the individual child, setting goals with the families to ensure tangible progress.

“Each child is different, and their progress is unique. But overall, it’s a great way to boost confidence, reduce anxiety, and achieve physical goals in a way that doesn’t feel clinical.”

It’s thanks to Siobhan's Legacy of Love that children like Sofia, Anna, and Thea can experience the many benefits of hippotherapy. As they strengthen their muscles, improve their mobility, and build confidence, their smiling faces reflect Siobhan’s lasting legacy.

"I am so pleased that the fundraising from Siobhan’s Legacy of Love is helping children like Sofia, Anna and Thea. It is comforting to know that Siobhan is still helping those who need it most, just as she always has."

- Siobhan's Mum