The Short-term Effects of Hippotherapy and Therapeutic Horseback Riding on Spasticity in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Meta-analysis
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| Category | Journal Articles |
|---|---|
| Abstract |
Purpose:We systematically reviewed the short-term effects of hippotherapy and therapeutic horseback riding (THR) on lower-limb muscle spasticity in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Methods:PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases were searched for relevant quantitative studies. Treatment effects were coded using the Ashworth scale (AS) or modified Ashworth scale (MAS) in pre- and posttreatment evaluations. Of the 73 studies identified initially, 7 met the inclusion criteria. Results:Treatment was associated with positive effects on lower-limb muscle spasticity, as supported by the AS or MAS scores. However, repeated trials did not show a statistically significant difference from a single trial (Q = 2.95, P = .086). Conclusion:Hippotherapy and THR can be used to treat lower-limb muscle spasticity in children with CP. However, repeated sessions did not show a better effect in reducing spasticity. What this adds to the evidence:This is the first meta-analysis to confirm that hippotherapy or THR can reduce lower-limb muscle spasticity in children with CP in the short term, but long-term effects on function still require further studies. |
| Date | 2022 |
| Publication Title | Pediatr Phys Ther |
| Volume | 34 |
| Issue | 2 |
| Pages | 172-178 |
| ISBN/ISSN | 0898-5669 (Print)0898-5669 |
| DOI | 10.1097/pep.0000000000000880 |
| Author Address | Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Konkuk University Medical Center, and Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. |
| Additional Language | English |
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