REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA SOBRE OS BENEFÍCIOS GERAIS DA EQUOTERAPIA

Abstract

The National Association of Equotherapy - ANDE-BRASIL adopted equine therapy as a treatment method, using horses to promote exercises that aim to improve motor coordination, flexibility, concentration and agility, resulting in improved physical and mental balance. This study, based on a literature review, aims to investigate the effects of hippotherapy on mental disorders, education, motor and psychomotor difficulties, analyze the impacts of the practice on improving quality of life and evaluate its impact on the school environment under the learning perspective. To achieve these objectives, a systematic review of the literature was carried out, which identified 22 articles related to equine therapy, published between 2005 and 2022. Disregarding eight articles focused on the administrative area of equine therapy, 14 works remained aligned with the objectives of the study. The results of this research emphasize the beneficial effects of hippotherapy, including muscle activation, application of postural correction techniques, improvement of motor control, progress in balance, strengthening of upper respiratory muscles and improvement in static balance. This comprehensive review highlights that equine therapy as a therapeutic resource offers several benefits, covering the physical, emotional and social development of practitioners. However, it is important to note that, despite positive results, some studies may not have achieved the expected results, suggesting the need for a more personalized approach or consideration of different variables. This finding highlights the continued importance of rigorous research and evaluation to enhance understanding of the benefits of equine therapy in diverse areas, ensuring its effectiveness as a meaningful therapeutic intervention.