What is hippotherapy? The indications and effectiveness of hippotherapy

North Clin Istanbul, 2015 · DOI: 10.14744/nci.2016.71601 · Published: January 15, 2015

Simple Explanation

Hippotherapy is a physical, occupational and speech therapy in which a therapist uses the characteristic movements of a horse to provide carefully graded motor and sensory input. A foundation is established to improve neurological function and sensory processing, which can be generalized to a wide range of daily activities. Hippotherapy has been used to treat patients with neurological or other disabilities, such as autism, cerebral palsy, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, head injury, stroke, spinal cord injury, behavioral disorders and psychiatric disorders.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Patients with neurological or other disabilities, such as autism, cerebral palsy, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, head injury, stroke, spinal cord injury, behavioral disorders and psychiatric disorders

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Hippotherapy can improve postural balance, and gait in ambulatory MS patients.
2
Hippotherapy can improve static balance, and gait in elder population.
3
Hippotherapy can be beneficial in maximizing functional performance in children with SP.

Research Summary

Hippotherapy is a treatment modality whose effectivenes has been confirmed in a large patient group with physical or mental disabilities when applied by an experienced therapist with the aid of a horse. Equine-asisted therapy is being used widely in many countries of the world. We think that as the importance of hippotherapy is acknowledged more deeply by physicians, and therapists in our country, greater number of patients, and their families will benefit from this form of treatment.

Practical Implications

Neurological Rehabilitation

Hippotherapy can be integrated into neurological rehabilitation programs to improve motor and sensory functions.

Pediatric Therapy

Hippotherapy is a complementary treatment for children with cerebral palsy and autism to enhance motor skills and social interaction.

Geriatric Care

Hippotherapy can be used to improve balance and gait in elderly patients, enhancing their mobility and quality of life.

What is hippotherapy? The indications and effectiveness of hippotherapy

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Neurological Rehabilitation

Pediatric Therapy

Geriatric Care

Study Limitations

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What is hippotherapy? The indications and effectiveness of hippotherapy

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Neurological Rehabilitation

Pediatric Therapy

Geriatric Care

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?