Physical therapy using horses for children with neuromotor impairments

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This pilot clinical trial aims to assess the effectiveness of physical therapy that incorporates hippotherapy for improving motor skills in children aged 6-17 with neuromotor disorders, such as cerebral palsy and spina bifida. The study will compare this innovative approach to standard play-based physical therapy to evaluate feasibility, participant outcomes, and physiological responses. Researchers will track recruitment, retention, and treatment fidelity to inform future larger-scale trials. The primary focus is on enhancing upper extremity function and participation in daily activities.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* 1\) 6-17 years old; 2) Diagnosed NMD with upper extremity impairment; 3) Able to follow simple verbal instructions in English; 4) Able to tolerate sitting on a horse continuously for 30 minutes; and 5) Meet Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) standards for participating in mounted activities.

Exclusion Criteria:

* 1\) Fear of or aversion to horses; 2) Weight over 200lbs (to protect safety and wellbeing of therapists and equines) 3) Participation in a horseback-riding program in the past 3 months; 4) Lacking independent head control; and 5) Caregivers unable to speak and read English.

Where it's running

• University of Montana
  Missoula, Montana, United States Recruiting

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.