Acute effect of hippotherapy applied on different sitting surfaces in children with special needs

PurposeThis study aimed to assess the acute effects of hippotherapy performed on different seating surfaces on sitting balance and walking speed in children with special needs.Materials and MethodsChildren aged 3-18 years with special needs were included. Participants were assigned to three groups: Group 1 (Saddle), Group 2 (No saddle, direct horse contact), and Group 3 (Saddle with additional texture material). Each group received a 30-min hippotherapy session in a riding arena. Sitting balance was measured with the BeCure balance system, and walking speed was assessed using the 10-meter walk test before and immediately after the session.ResultsNo significant improvement was found in sitting balance in any group after the intervention. However, Group 3 showed increased walking speed compared to Groups 1 and 2. Intergroup comparisons showed no statistically significant differences in sitting balance or walking speed.ConclusionDifferent texture materials used on saddles may provide more noticeable acute effects in hippotherapy. Future research should involve larger sample sizes and explore subacute and long-term outcomes.