Hippotherapy: a fun new way to boost motor skills in kids?

NCT ID NCT06887647

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tests whether physical therapy that includes horseback riding (hippotherapy) can improve arm and hand skills in children aged 6-17 with neuromotor disorders like cerebral palsy or spina bifida. Twenty-four participants will receive either hippotherapy or standard play-based therapy twice a week for 8 weeks. Researchers will measure changes in motor function, goal achievement, and participation in daily life, as well as how feasible the study is for a larger trial.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Physical therapy using hippotherapy (horseback riding) and equine environment activities

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a more engaging way to improve arm function and participation in daily activities for children with neuromotor disorders.

What could go wrong

This is a small pilot study with only 24 participants, so results may not apply broadly. It is testing feasibility, not yet proven effectiveness.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Montana

    RECRUITING

    Missoula, Montana, 59812, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

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