Horses and Humans Research Foundation (HHRF) announces a second awarded grant in 2023! HHRF has awarded $75,000 for the research project “Neurological rehabilitation through hippotherapy on the neurofunctional sequels of a brain stroke: (I) Effect on the functional independence, sensorimotor and cognitive capacities, and quality of life of the patients (II) Effect on quality of life of the caregivers.” This study will be led by Dr. Manuel Gaviria and the team from Equiphoria in La Canourgue, France.
The objective of the study is to analyze the effect on the functional and global impact of a 22-week hippotherapy treatment on patients who have suffered a stroke resulting in moderate to severe disability. A second purpose is to measure the impact of the intervention on the quality of life of their caregivers. The main evaluation criterion is the patient’s functional independence measured by a validated clinical score. Secondary evaluation criteria include the patient’s degree of functional disability, motor status, postural balance, gait performance, and quality of life. Quality of life and caregiver’s burden are also assessed. The type of study proposed is a prospective randomized clinical trial on the effectiveness of hippotherapy (treatment group) versus conventional outpatient rehabilitation alone (control group). The program will be implemented during the first year after the stroke and will last one year for each patient.
To read the complete grant application please visit www.horsesandhumans.org
Helene Viruega, Executive Director at Equiphoria, states “It is a great honor to receive this award. It serves as a validation of our joint mission and effort to prove the powerful impact of EAT worldwide. Thank you to HHRF for this recognition and significant financial support.”
On behalf of HHRF, Dr. Pebbles Turbeville shares “the board is very excited about this research project examining the neurofunctional sequel of a stroke for the patients but also assessing the caregivers of the patients.”
Contribute to HHRF today and help ensure that important research, and education about research on horse-human interactions continues. For more information about HHRF, this project and past awarded research projects visit the website horsesandhumans.org or contact Dr. Pebbles Turbeville, Executive Director, exec.director@horsesandhumans.org.
Mission: “Through sustained investment in rigorous research and educational initiatives, Horses and Humans Research Foundation serves as a catalyst to advance global knowledge of horse-human interactions and their impact on health and well-being of people, horses and other equines.” * such as Donkeys and Mules
CONTACT: Dr. Pebbles Turbeville, HHRF Executive Director exec.director@horsesandhumans.org or info@horsesandhumans.org