November 2007

Image at the Last Day of Class

When Beverley asked us at our last class, what image comes to mind when you think of this class--many impressions came to light. The rolling hills behind Webb ranch. Our first silent walk up to the corral on the hill. The four of us attached in a silly way as limbs and brains. But what came to mind most was something not visible. Or rather, not physically visible, and that is the community and bond our class formed during the five short weeks we were together. Perhaps one of the most valuable lessons of Horses and Medicine is the bond that can form between different human beings when they are genuine, honest and open to learning and getting to know others. It has been an honor to spend time in such an unusual and unique setting with fellow medical students and community members. Thank you for all that I have learned about horses, horsemanship and patients!

Anna

My balancing ride

It was out last meeting for M&H, and it was our turn to experience "therapeutic riding". Divided in two teams of five, we worked together to guide and take care of the one of us who was riding bareback on one of our horses. I enjoyed being a 'sidewalker' (to make sure that our rider feels, and is safe on the horse), and I most definitely enjoyed the riding experience. First and foremost, I felt safe when I was riding, so much that I felt comfortable letting go my sidewalkers and even closing my eyes. While we were not trotting, riding bareback allowed me to fully feel the horse's body moving, and my own. I felt my leg moving within my hip joint (acetabulum, for those of us) as if I was walking!!! When we had time to do one more round, I wanted to ride backwards (with my back facing the front of the horse), and this was a relaxing and balance-testing experience. I feel fortunate to having experienced first-hand what horse therapy can do to the spirit and body. Thanks to all whom with I shared this 5 week experience with!!
MA

Therapy and Horses

This week we went and watched some therapy involving horses. There were some inspiring stories of how this type of therapy had really helped people. I think there is a real opportunity for physicians to know more about physical therapy and different options for severly disabled children. I'm not sure what will be covered in the official cirriculum but I'm glad to be aware of an option that might help some of my patients in the future.