Hippotherapy for Neuromotor Impairment

This trial explores whether physical therapy involving horses can improve arm motor skills in children with neuromotor disorders like cerebral palsy. The main goal is to determine if this horse-based therapy, known as hippotherapy, is more effective than regular play-based physical therapy. It also examines how these therapies affect children's physical, emotional, and behavioral responses. Children aged 6-17 with a neuromotor disorder affecting their arms, who can sit on a horse for 30 minutes, might be suitable candidates for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity for children to potentially benefit from innovative therapy while contributing to valuable research.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that physical therapy using hippotherapy, which involves therapy with horses, is generally well-tolerated. Studies have focused on its use with children who have conditions like cerebral palsy. These studies indicate that hippotherapy rarely causes serious harm and often helps improve movement and balance.

In previous studies, trained professionals followed safety standards, reducing the risk of injury when working with horses. Reports of problems, such as falls or injuries, are rare when proper safety measures are in place.

Researchers are excited about using hippotherapy for neuromotor impairment because it offers a unique and engaging approach compared to traditional physical therapy. Unlike standard play-based physical therapy, hippotherapy incorporates the movement of horses, which can provide a dynamic and sensory-rich environment that enhances balance, coordination, and motor skills. This interaction with horses also encourages physical, cognitive, and emotional engagement, potentially leading to improved outcomes in a more enjoyable setting. By tapping into the therapeutic benefits of equine movement, this method aims to offer a novel way to enhance rehabilitation for those with neuromotor challenges.

Research has shown that therapy involving horses can improve movement skills in children with nerve and muscle disorders. Studies have found that this therapy enhances balance, movement abilities, and overall quality of movement. For instance, children with cerebral palsy experienced better motor skills after participating in horse-assisted therapies. In this trial, participants in the intervention group will receive physical therapy using hippotherapy and the equine environment. While improvements in daily life might be small, the benefits to physical abilities are significant. This therapy uses horses to create a unique setting that boosts traditional physical therapy techniques.⁵⁶⁷⁸⁹