Corcoran also works as a physical therapy consultant for other therapeutic riding programs. Corcoran enjoys working with patients and witnessing the tremendous progress made through hippotherapy. Six-year old Mallory Corrus, a little girl with cerebral palsy has made significant progress. Adaptive riding Besides hippotherapy, another form of adaptive horseback riding is also very popular, though goals and outcomes differ from hippotherapy. Many people with disabilities have taken up horseback riding using adaptive equipment.
Riders enjoy interaction with horses, as well as a sense of achievement.
Even riders who have never ridden prior to having a disability are pleasantly surprised at how gratifying it is. Finding the most appropriate adaptive equipment is worth any extra effort. Adaptive equipment often begins with a mounting platform and a wheelchair ramp. Sheepskin pads are also used to maximize sensation so the rider can feel the horse well enough to respond to its movements. Sometimes a Velcro belt with a quick-release feature is used to secure someone in the saddle without trapping him or her.