Equine-assisted Therapy (EAT) for Tetraparesis: A Holistic Approach to Physical Recovery, Emotional Well-being, and Social Reintegration - A Case Study

Equine-assisted therapy (EAT) has gained increasing attention as a complementary treatment for various physical and psychological conditions, with promising outcomes. Recent research suggests that EAT can enhance neuromuscular function by utilizing the horse's movement as a therapeutic tool, offering potential benefits for patients with tetraparesis. However, despite these promising results, skepticism remains among health professionals, particularly in Romania, where the lack of formal regulation and the recreational framing of EAT contribute to doubts about its efficacy. Additionally, in the rehabilitation of tetraparesis, emotional recovery and social reintegration are often underemphasized compared to physical recovery. This case study examines the effectiveness of EAT in promoting physical rehabilitation, emotional well-being, and social reintegration in a patient with tetraparesis resulting from a spinal cord injury (SCI). Over a period of four years, the patient participated in weekly EAT sessions, with therapeutic goals targeting these three interconnected areas. Progress was assessed using the ASIA Impairment Scale (based on the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL). The results showed a notable improvement, with the patient's ASIA score progressing from Grade A to Grade D, and their quality of life shifting from very poor to moderately good on the WHOQOL scale. These findings suggest that EAT not only offers significant physical benefits but also provides a holistic approach to psychological recovery, emotional well-being, and social reintegration for individuals with tetraparesis.