Changes in dynamic trunk/head stability and functional reach after hippotherapy.
OBJECTIVE
To determine if hippotherapy (therapy using a horse) improves head/trunk stability and upper extremity (UE) reaching/targeting in children with spastic diplegia cerebral palsy (SDCP).


METHODS
Pre-postoperative follow-up with a 12-week intervention and 12-week washout period after intervention.


METHODS
A human performance laboratory with 6 camera video motion capture systems for testing.


METHODS
Eleven children (age 5-13y, average 8y) with SDCP, 8 children (age 5-13y, average 8y) without disabilities.


METHODS
Hippotherapy intervention performed at 3 therapeutic horseback riding centers.


METHODS
Video motion capture using surface markers collecting data at 60 Hz, a mechanical barrel to challenge trunk and head stability, and functional reach/targeting test on static surface.


RESULTS
Significant changes with large effect sizes in head/trunk stability and reaching/targeting, elapsed time, and efficiency (reach/path ratio) after 12 weeks of hippotherapy intervention. Changes were retained after a 12-week washout period.


CONCLUSIONS
Hippotherapy improves trunk/head stability and UE reaching/targeting. These skills form the foundation for many functional tasks. Changes are maintained after the intervention ceases providing a skill foundation for functional tasks that may also enhance occupational performance and participation.
Shurtleff
Tim L
TL
Human Performance Laboratory, Program in Occupational Therapy, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA. shurtlefft@wusm.wustl.edu
Standeven
John W
JW
Engsberg
Jack R
JR
D000293:Adolescent; D000818:Animals; D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006257:Head; D006736:Horses; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013909:Thorax; D034941:Upper Extremity