Article

Equitation thérapeutique
OBJECTIVES: 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). DESIGN: Pre-postoperative follow-up with
a 12-week intervention and 12-week washout period after intervention. SETTING: A
human performance laboratory with 6 camera video motion capture systems for
testing. PARTICIPANTS: Eleven children (age 5-13y, average 8y) with SDCP, 8
children (age 5-13y, average 8y) without disabilities. INTERVENTION: Hippotherapy
intervention performed at 3 therapeutic horseback riding centers. MAIN OUTCOME
MEASURES: 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.

Langue : ANGLAIS