Work

Perceptions of Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies by Parents and Children With Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: To identify the physical and psychosocial effects of equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAATs) on children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) from the perspective of the children and their parents. METHODS: The families of all eligible children with SMA, who reported participation in EAAT, from a Western metropolitan academic center were contacted and invited to participate. This study implemented qualitative, semistructured interviews of children with SMA and their parents. RESULTS: Three themes emerged from the qualitative content analysis: physical/psychosocial benefits; relationship development with the horses, instructors, and children; and barriers to continued EAAT engagement. CONCLUSIONS: The data suggest that the overall EAAT experience was a source of enjoyment, self-confidence, and normalcy for the children with SMA. The results of this study provide preliminary support for the use of EAAT among children with SMA.

Source: Pediatric Physical Therapy

DOI: 10.1097/pep.0000000000000027

Authors: Danielle Lemke, Erin Rothwell, Tara M. Newcomb, Kathryn J. Swoboda

Institutions: University of Utah, Utah Valley Regional Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Neurogenetic and Muscular Disorders Research

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Center for Research Resources, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development