“As he gets older it’s really important for Arran to be able to help his mum in carrying out his activities of daily living and the Hippotherapy sessions allow him to achieve these” says Therapist Morven.
Arran has been a participant at Muirfield Riding Therapy since he was 4 years old. The first time he came he rode in the Hippotherapy session and on our beloved little Smartie.
Arran had been diagnosed with a metabolic disease whichaffects all of his movement. In particular he has dystonia in his right leg and low tone in his trunk. He can tend to lean heavily onto his right side.
Riding helped him to work his core, strengthening muscles and improving his symmetry.
Arran on Smart
Fast forward to this term and see Arran on mechanical horse, Oreo! Working with Therapist Morven and a small team of Volunteers staffing this extra hippotherapy session, he has made great progress.
Morven says,
Arran has been working so incredibly hard over the last 12 weeks in his sessions. His balance has improved; his core stability is improving along with his upper body strength due to the weekly exercises he is carrying out.
As he gets older it’s really important for Arran to be able to help his mum in carrying out his activities of daily living and the Hippotherapy sessions allow him to achieve these.
It has been wonderful for the Friday morning Volunteers to work with this young man, and feel that they are helping Arran to improve the life skills he needs as he gets older.
Arran’s mum Natalie says,
Arran absolutely loves his sessions and it was great to see his progress and how hard he tried with each exercise. As always the coaches and volunteers are so lovely, carry out transfers in a safe and professional way and making sure Arran is comfortable and listened to, whilst also having a laugh and building a connection. We really appreciate the time people give to provide this opportunity for something Arran can do that’s fun, benefits him so much and that’s just for him.
Arran having fun with Therapist Morven (left) and the team!
