Walker Therapy

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Available Therapy Forms

Equine Assisted Therapy (Provided through Finding Faith, Inc)

Physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists may employ this multidimensional therapeutic tool.  We use a horse to provide rhythmic movement and sensation. As the horse moves, the rider’s muscles instinctively respond to the constantly changing need to maintain balance. Equine Assisted Therapy is fun, exciting and motivational; it expands freedom of movement while also promoting muscular strength, endurance and sensory integration. Among other benefits, “This therapy has been shown to improve muscle tone, balance, posture, coordination, motor development as well as emotional well-being.”(1) Equine Assisted Therapy sessions are conducted in a large, indoor, climate-controlled arena right at the Center. During the session, the accompanying therapist provides skilled intervention using other therapeutic tools and methods that address numerous skills allowing the client to realize maximum benefits. This form of therapy may be recommended for both pediatric and adult clients with neurological issues (multiple sclerosis, brain injury, stroke, spinal cord injury, etc.) or with developmental disabilities (Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, sensory integration dysfunction, etc.). Each client is carefully screened to rule out any potential contraindications to this form of therapy.

 

Aquatic Therapy

Physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists may employ the unique characteristics of water as a therapeutic tool. Water provides both weight support and muscular resistance in a buoyant environment that mitigates the effects of gravity. “An aquatic environment allows [clients] to engage in meaningful occupations that may otherwise be difficult or impossible during land-based treatment.”(2) This form of therapy may be recommended for both pediatric and adult clients with neurological impairment, developmental disabilities or orthopedic problems such as joint replacement, joint pain, joint dysfunction or muscle weakness. Aquatic therapy permits clients a wider range of movement while also encouraging muscular strength and stamina. This therapy may be recommended for geriatric clients who can no longer participate in resistive therapy. Aquatic therapy sessions are conducted in a private, heated indoor pool right at the Center.

Feeding and Swallowing Therapy

Our specially designed feeding room allows occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists to work with both adults and children in group or individual sessions. They are trained to treat patients with issues ranging from dysphagia to food aversions due to sensory defensiveness, in addition to problems with self feeding. The adjacent observation room is equipped with two way mirrors to allow caregivers to observe treatment without being a distraction. Our therapists will work closely with everyone involved to encourage life-long nutrition and safe eating habits.