Equine Therapy in the Rehabilitation of Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62452/a4ntag74Keywords:
Hippotherapy, cerebral palsy, motor rehabilitation, pediatric neurology, equine-assisted therapyAbstract
Equine-assisted therapy constitutes a complementary therapeutic intervention used in pediatric rehabilitation, especially in children with cerebral palsy, due to its positive effects on motor functions and overall well-being. The present study aimed to analyze the functional benefits of equine-assisted therapy in children with cerebral palsy through a qualitative-descriptive systematic review. To achieve this, a search for scientific information was conducted in different specialized databases, selecting studies published between 1998 and 2024 related to this topic. The results showed significant improvements in postural control, motor coordination, balance, and gait quality, while also promoting patient motivation and social interaction. It is concluded that equine-assisted therapy represents an effective, innovative, and motivating therapeutic alternative within the comprehensive management of cerebral palsy, contributing to functional development and a better quality of life for affected children.
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