Horse simulators are special mechanical systems developed based on the principles of hippotherapy. These devices mimic the three-dimensional, rhythmic and repetitive pelvic movements of the horse during gait. Thus, the basic neuromotor effects of hippotherapy with a real horse can be achieved in a controlled and safe clinical environment.
How is it done?
The patient is safely seated on the simulator accompanied by a therapist. The simulator applies the horse's gait, tempo and stepping pattern with different speed, direction and vibration options. The therapist guides the patient's sitting, trunk control and upper limb positions.
If necessary, additional activities such as balance exercises with the arms, ball handling, trunk rotation movements are integrated.
In which diseases is it used?
- A horse simulator can be added to a rehabilitation program, especially if
- Cerebral Palsy (CP): Trunk control, sitting balance, decreased spasticity.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Improvement in balance, fatigue, gait quality and quality of life.
- Rehabilitation After Stroke: Support in sitting balance, postural control and walking skills.
- Spinal Cord Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries: For muscle tone regulation and trunk stability.
- Orthopedic and Postural Disorders: Pelvic symmetry and activation of core muscles.
Mechanism of Action
- Movements provided by the horse simulator,
- It stimulates the trunk muscles and balance reflexes with the natural three-dimensional gait pattern of the pelvis.
- It facilitates motor learning by increasing vestibular, proprioceptive and sensory inputs.
- Regular repetition promotes neuroplasticity; that is, it makes it easier for the brain to learn new movement patterns.
- As it is applied in a clinical setting, it is controlled, safe and weather independent.
Benefits for Patients
The main benefits of the horse simulator according to scientific studies and current literature:
- Improvement of balance and posture
- Regulation of muscle tone (reduction of spasticity)
- Improvement of gait pattern
- Strengthening of the trunk and core muscles
- Reduced fatigue and pain, improved quality of life
Why Horse Simulator?
- It can be used in all seasons, in all conditions.
- Standardizable and dose adjustable (speed, tempo, duration).
- Patient safety is high.
- Easily integrated with clinical equipment.
Hippotherapy with a horse simulator is a safe, scientific and motivating method in the rehabilitation process. In our hospital, this application is planned according to individual goals and used as a complementary treatment tool to the classical rehabilitation program.