Effect of Hippotherapy Simulator on Spasticity in Children with Cerebral Palsy (A Quasi-experimental Pilot Study)

Abstract

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a common disorder which leads to physical disability in children throughout life and begins in early childhood. Management of spasticity is still a challenge in the field of CP rehabilitation. Hippotherapy simulator (HS) has been reported to have beneficial effects on spasticity, postural control and motor function in children with spastic CP which is considered as an alternative method for hippotherapy (HT). The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of HS on spasticity in children with spastic CP. This is a pilot quasi experimental study. 12 children with spastic diplegia, aged between 2–6 years were selected and underwent the HS. Changes in adductor spasticity were assessed by Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). In addition hip abduction Range of Motion (ROM) was measured by Goniometer and distance between knees by inch tape. Paired‘t’ test was used to compare the pre and post intervention scores. The pre and post intervention scores are significant with the p value (p<0.01) which shows that there was reduction in adductor spasticity, improvement in hip abduction range of motion and distance between knees. Hence it is concluded that HS is effective in reducing spasticity and improving range of motion in hip joint in spastic CP. HS can be recommended as the best intervention and alternative for HT. This technology can be easily installed in home and clinical setting to make the rehabilitation more fun and attractive for children, enhancing the motivational part of the therapy.