ROCK recently explored the therapeutic potential of equine-based movement activities for individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) with Southwestern University. The project examined whether three consecutive days of equine-assisted services (EAS) and horse-simulated activity (HSA) could improve balance, functional mobility, and fall-related behaviors.
Building on previous research from Texas A&M University, the project investigated both mounted equine sessions and the use of the Miracolt horse simulator. Participants with Stage 1–2 Parkinson’s disease completed three 20-minute sessions, with assessments conducted before and after the intervention and again at a one-month follow-up.
The study evaluated several measures of balance and mobility, including the Sharpened Romberg, Single-Leg Stance, Timed Up and Go, Dynamic Gait Index, and measures related to fear and avoidance of activities.
Results were encouraging. Participants demonstrated significant improvements in static balance, including the Sharpened Romberg and Single-Leg Stance assessments. While functional mobility measures did not reach statistical significance, clinically meaningful improvements were observed. Timed Up and Go performance improved by approximately 9.8%, Dynamic Gait Index scores increased by 7.1%, and fear-related activity avoidance improved by 11.3%.
These findings suggest that short-term, rhythmic equine movement may contribute to improvements in postural stability and functional mobility for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. The results support continued exploration of equine-based movement as a safe and accessible therapeutic strategy.
ROCK plans to further investigate the longer-term effects of both horse-simulator and mounted equine activities and explore opportunities to connect participants with adaptive riding experiences.
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