Alessandro P., age 7 and a Shea Center client for 4 ½ years, has Mowat-Wilson syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that causes global developmental delay.   

Alessandro’s physical therapist, Matt Mitchell, explains Alessandro’s therapy, “Alessandro benefits from a collaborative approach using physical and occupational therapies.  PT focuses on balance and posture, while OT focuses on engagement and sensory integration.  Alessandro has grown in his ability to lift his head and look at the other horses in the arena.  He now reaches forward while the horse is moving and he loves to play with tactile toys.  Alessandro always beams a huge smile when he is sitting sideways and the horse starts walking and changes its movement pattern.”

Alessandro’s mother, Sandra, says “To others, it sometimes seems as though Alessandro is not making progress in his therapies; however, I have definitely seen improvement in his trunk strength.  Also, Alessandro’s muscles are extremely tight and riding a horse warms and relaxes his muscles and he becomes less anxious.

In addition to riding and physical and occupational therapies, Alessandro also participates in water therapy and his mother helps him with stretching exercises at home.