International Journal of Pedagogics
144
https://theusajournals.com/index.php/ijp
VOLUME
Vol.05 Issue03 2025
PAGE NO.
144-146
10.37547/ijp/Volume05Issue03-40
Methods of using ippotherapy in the health of children
with physical development defects
Axmedov Bahriddin
Independent researcher at the Scientific Research Institute of Physical Education and Sports, Uzbekistan
Received:
27 January 2025;
Accepted:
25 February 2025;
Published:
23 March 2025
Abstract:
This article is dedicated to practical recommendations for the implementation of hippotherapy in
children with physical developmental disabilities, outlining the priorities of the state and society in the social
sphere, in particular, the legal framework for the rehabilitation and rehabilitation of children with disabilities,
social protection, and comprehensive support for them. The author also provides practical recommendations on
the methods of conducting hippotherapy classes.
Keywords:
Child with physical disabilities, hippotherapy, health improvement, rehabilitation, social adaptation in
society, integration.
Introduction:
In our country, large-scale efforts are
being undertaken to further improve the system of
social protection for persons with disabilities, to
increase the effectiveness of their medical, social, and
vocational rehabilitation, and to enhance their
integration into society. The legislation of the Republic
of Uzbekistan establishes guarantees for the protection
and implementation of the rights and freedoms of
persons with disabilities and their families on an equal
basis with other citizens. This is ensured through the
recognition of their dignity, independence, and
freedom of choice.
Literature review
This article, to a certain extent, contributes to the
implementation of the tasks set forth in the following
regulatory and legal documents of the Republic of
Uzbekistan: Presidential Decree No. PQ-5024 dated
March 11, 2021, “On additional measures for the
further development of equestrianism and horse
sports, as well as the promotion of modern pentathlon
and polo”; Presidential Decree No. PQ
-5211 dated
August 5, 2021, “On the State Program for the
Development of Equestrianism, Horse Sports, Modern
Pentathl
on, and Polo in Uzbekistan until 2025”;
Presidential Decree No. PQ-5212 dated August 5, 2021,
“On measures for organizing the activities of Equestrian
Schools”; Presidential Decree No. PQ
-5280 dated
November 5, 2021, “On the Program for the
Development of Sports-Education Institutions until
2025”, as well as other regulatory and legal documents
relevant to this field.
METHODOLOGY
On December 7, 2021, in his congratulatory speech
dedicated to the 29th anniversary of the adoption of
the Constitution of Uzbekistan, President Shavkat
Mirziyoyev stated: "...Today, Uzbekistan is confidently
moving toward building a social state and a just society.
Therefore, the time has come to enshrine the principle
of 'New Uzbekistan
—
a social state' as a constitutional
provision.” He further emphasized: “A social state
provides housing and ensures a minimum level of
essential consumer goods for those in need. It requires
the provision of a living wage sufficient for a person and
their family to live with dignity, employment
opportunities, safe working conditions, and the
reduction of poverty. Additionally, protection against
unemployment, guaranteed access to quality
education, qualified medical care, equal opportunities
for all, and comprehensive support for families,
children, women, the elderly, and persons with
disabilities are fundamental duties of a social state. In
short, in a social state, no one is left behind or
abandoned with their problems.”
In light of these priorities, it is necessary to carry out
activities
such
as
training
and
professional
development of qualified personnel in this field,
International Journal of Pedagogics
145
https://theusajournals.com/index.php/ijp
International Journal of Pedagogics (ISSN: 2771-2281)
involving young researchers in scientific studies, and
preparing and publishing modern educational
literature. Taking these into account, systematic and
effective organization of rehabilitation and wellness
measures for children with physical disabilities, as well
as the development of age-appropriate personal
qualities required for social integration, including social
activity, curiosity, motivation for self-expression, and
the formation of essential social competencies and
habits for independent life, must be prioritized. Based
on an analysis of the current situation, practical
recommendations have been developed on methods of
conducting hippotherapy sessions aimed at the
rehabilitation and wellness of children with physical
developmental impairments, as part of a scientific and
methodological support framework.
RESULTS
Hippotherapy for children with physical impairments
requires a carefully considered approach that takes
into account the child’s age, physical condition, and
individual needs. The main practical recommendations
for organizing sessions are as follows:
1. PREPARATION FOR SESSIONS
Medical Consultation:
Before starting sessions, it is essential to obtain a
medical opinion from a doctor (neurologist,
orthopedist, or other specialized physician). This helps
identify possible contraindications and develop an
individualized program.
Horse Selection:
The horse must be calm, well-balanced, and trained for
hippotherapy. The height and width of the horse's back
should be suitable for the child’s size and needs.
Preparing the Child:
It is important to explain to the child what will happen
during the session to reduce fear and anxiety.
The child’s clothing s
hould be comfortable and not
restrict movement. Wearing a protective helmet is
mandatory.
2. CONDUCTING THE SESSIONS
Duration and Frequency:
Initial sessions should not exceed 15
–
20 minutes.
Gradually, the duration can be extended to 30
–
40
minutes.
For stable results, sessions should be conducted 2
–
3
times per week.
Stages of the Session:
a) Introduction to the Horse:
The child can pet or feed the horse to establish contact.
This is especially important for anxious children.
The instructor helps the child mount the horse and
ensures correct posture.
b) Main Part:
The horse moves at a slow pace. The instructor
monitors the child's posture and assists with exercises
aimed at improving coordination, balance, and muscle
tone.
Possible exercises: stretching arms forward and
sideways, turning the head, grasping objects.
c) Conclusion:
After the session, the child may help take care of the
horse (brushing, feeding), which promotes a sense of
responsibility and emotional connection.
Positioning on the Horse:
Sitting position: Used to strengthen the back, improve
balance, and posture.
Lying on back or stomach: Used to relax muscles and
stimulate deep muscle activity.
Instructor Support:
The instructor constantly monitors the child’s
movements and provides assistance when needed.
For children with severe disabilities, additional support
staff may be required.
3. SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS
Always use specialized equipment, including a
protective helmet.
The horse must move slowly and smoothly, without
sudden movements.
A trained hippotherapy instructor must be present
during sessions.
4. CORRECTIONAL FUNCTIONS OF HIPPOTHERAPY
Improving muscle tone: Regular sessions help relax
tense muscles or strengthen weak ones.
Developing coordination and balance: The horse’s
rhythmic movements stimulate the vestibular system.
Enhancing circulation and breathing: Contact with the
horse’s warm div improves blood circulation and
respiratory function.
Building trust and social adaptation: Interaction with
the animal supports emotional stability and develops
communication skills.
5. EXAMPLES OF EXERCISES ON THE HORSE
"Sun"
–
stretching arms upward and to the sides.
"Twist"
–
slowly turning the torso and head in different
directions.
"Bridge"
–
the child, lying on their back, slightly lifts
their pelvis from the horse’s back.
International Journal of Pedagogics
146
https://theusajournals.com/index.php/ijp
International Journal of Pedagogics (ISSN: 2771-2281)
"Object collection"
–
the child tries to reach small toys
placed at their level.
6. COOPERATION WITH PARENTS
Explain the goals and importance of hippotherapy to
parents.
Regularly inform parents about their child’s progress.
Provide home support recommendations when
necessary (e.g., exercises to strengthen muscles,
massage, physiotherapy treatments).
Hippotherapy is not only a method of physical
rehabilitation but also an effective way to improve the
child’s emotional well
-being. The most important
factors are a systematic approach, consideration of
individual characteristics, and teamwork with qualified
specialists.
CONCLUSION
In
conclusion
of
this
work
on
practical
recommendations for conducting hippotherapy for
children with physical developmental disabilities, the
main aspects have been summarized, with particular
attention paid to the significance of hippotherapy as an
effective method for rehabilitation and health
improvement of children with various physical
impairments. The theoretical and practical aspects of
hippotherapy have been examined, confirming its
effectiveness in the treatment and rehabilitation of
children with physical developmental disorders.
Research shows that interaction with a horse helps
improve physical condition, correct posture and motor
activity disorders, and also positively affects the
psycho-emotional state of children. This method not
only develops physical skills but also helps build self-
confidence, improve children’s social skills, and
enhance their overall quality of life, which is especially
important for children with disabilities.
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