Clinical Effectiveness and Application Areas of Mechanical Hippotherapy in Modern Physiotherapy Approaches
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18086734Keywords:
Health services, physiotherapy, hippotherapy, postural control, digital health.Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to examine the effects and clinical applications of mechanical hippotherapy in modern physiotherapy. Hippotherapy, traditionally performed using live horses, can also be applied through mechanical simulators, offering a controlled and safe rehabilitation environment.
Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Elsevier databases, including English and Turkish publications such as clinical studies, review articles, and meta-analyses. Keywords included “hippotherapy”, “mechanical horse simulator”, “neurological rehabilitation”, “cerebral palsy”, “Parkinson disease”, and “postural control”. Studies involving both live horse and mechanical simulator interventions were evaluated. Data were analyzed regarding postural control, balance, core muscle activation, motor performance, and quality of life.
Results: The analysis indicated that mechanical hippotherapy improves postural stability, balance, and core muscle activation. In children with cerebral palsy, short sessions enhanced sitting posture and pelvic symmetry. Patients with multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease experienced improvements in balance, fatigue, spasticity, and daily living activities. Simulators also increased motivation, reduced fear and anxiety, and facilitated safe participation, particularly in children and individuals with fear of horses. Core muscles, including rectus femoris, erector spinae, internal and external obliques, and rectus abdominis, were effectively activated, supporting functional improvements.
Conclusions: Mechanical hippotherapy is an effective complementary or alternative rehabilitation method, providing the benefits of traditional horse-assisted therapy in a safe and measurable manner. Future studies should investigate long-term effects, optimal session protocols, and cost-effectiveness, while systematically evaluating psychosocial and motivational outcomes to enhance clinical application.
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