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Hippotherapy Clinical Specialist Practice Exam

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During lateral weight shift movements on the horse, what is the global response?
Correct Answer:
Global response: Weight shift with trunk elongation on the same side
Explanation:
When the horse moves laterally, the body responds with a global, whole-body adjustment rather than just tensing a small area. The weight shifts to one side and the trunk lengthens on that same side as the pelvis shifts under the torso, the spine mildly lateral-flexes toward the weight-bearing side, and the rib cage expands to maintain balance. This coordinated elongation keeps the head, neck, and shoulders aligned over the moving base of support and allows the rider to stay upright and connected to the horse. This is different from a localized reaction (limited to a small area), a forward/backward shift (anterior weight shift), or no response at all. The global pattern is the integrated, multi-segment adjustment the body uses to adapt to lateral movement on the horse.

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