Horses Heal

Two years ago, Warm Beach Horsemanship Director Lisa Tremain had a severe crushing injury resulting in permanent nerve damage in her left leg. Today, she is riding and working confidently, largely thanks to therapeutic vaulting.

After a year and a half of physical therapy, Lisa plateaued in her recovery. She was frustrated with her working and riding limitations. Seeing this, Ginger Reitz, Warm Beach’s Therapeutic Horsemanship Coordinator, approached Lisa and suggested therapeutic vaulting to supplement her physical therapy.

Lisa saw improvement in her strength and riding after just two sessions.

“It opened my eyes to what we could offer in the therapeutic realm,” Lisa said.

Because of your body’s position while riding a horse, Ginger says, “your body’s systems are stimulated without bearing weight on your legs.” Which was crucial for Lisa’s recovery.

When Lisa was on her feet, her healthy leg had to work harder even when doing basic things. Being on horseback took away Lisa’s need to compensate for her injury. Her specific therapy plan focuses on exercises that isolate her left leg. All of this takes place on the back of horses Lisa loves and knows well.

Therapeutic vaulting can be adapted for a multitude of injuries and disabilities.

Ginger refers to the horse as, “a great equalizer,” because it levels out physical and mental ability. “Every minute spent on a horse is useful – not one moment is wasted,” Ginger said.

“Just even sitting on the horse is beneficial,” Lisa explained, “It can be for anyone. There are so many muscles it can be suited for. I never thought I could do what I am doing now after eight months of sessions.”

All of these benefits come through the grace of God as well. Ginger says, “God comes in through the horse and facilitates healing.”

-Carl Kulper, Communications Specialist
Warm Beach Camp and Conference Center