Exploring how therapeutic horseback riding helps youth with autism and psychiatric disorders
Physiological mechanisms of action relating to immediate and long-term therapeutic horseback riding intervention effects in a psychiatric population of youth with autism spectrum disorder
This study is looking at how therapeutic horseback riding can help kids aged 6-16 with autism and other mental health challenges feel better and improve their social skills, while also checking how their bodies respond during the 10-week program.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10766690 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of therapeutic horseback riding on youth aged 6-16 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and co-occurring psychiatric disorders. The study aims to understand the physiological mechanisms behind the benefits of this intervention, such as reduced irritability and improved social skills. Participants will engage in a 10-week program, and their physiological responses, including cortisol levels and cardiovascular activity, will be monitored to assess the impact of the therapy. The research also seeks to evaluate how long these benefits last and whether certain sub-groups of youth respond better to the intervention.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are youth aged 6-16 diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and experiencing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety or depression.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or those without co-occurring psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel therapeutic option that significantly improves the quality of life for youth with autism and psychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results for therapeutic horseback riding in improving outcomes for children with autism, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gabriels, Robin L — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Gabriels, Robin L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.