Equine-assisted therapeutic activities and their influence on the heart rate variability: A systematic review.

This research examines the influence of equine-assisted therapeutic activities on the heart rate variability of individuals, suggesting a possible reduction in stress levels. However, the findings demand careful interpretation due to inherent study biases, and further detailed, rigorous clinical trials are required for better understanding.

Introduction

• The primary aim of this systematic review is to investigate the effects of equinotherapy, specifically equine-assisted therapeutic interventions, on a person’s heart rate variability (HRV). This HRV is used as an objective biological variable that can gauge the stress levels of the individual.

Methodology

• The researchers conducted a systematic review using the procedure outlined in the PRISMA declaration.
• Academic databases were exhaustively searched for studies pertaining to the topic at hand. The detailed methodology used for the review was not defined, but is likely to have involved thoroughly assessing the design, sample size, methodology, and findings of each study included.

Results

• Initially, 432 records were identified from the database searches. These were subsequently refined for inclusion based on their relevance, validity, and quality, resulting in nine papers for the final review.
• The majority of these papers, eight in total, reported positive effects of equine-assisted therapy on HRV. These therapeutic activities appeared to encourage relaxation by activating the Parasympathetic Nervous System, which typically serves to slow heart rate and decrease blood pressure. Only one study did not report a favorable effect.
• The quality of evidence and potential bias in the studies were also analyzed. This analysis indicated that the conclusions must be interpreted cautiously due to possible biases in the reviewed studies.

Conclusions

• The preliminary results showing a favorable influence of equine-assisted therapy on HRV are promising. However, due to the methodological limitations of the available studies, these results cannot be considered definitive.
• The researchers conclude that more rigorous clinical trials need to be conducted to validate these findings. This will help overcome the limitations encountered in the initial works, enhancing the credibility and generalizability of results on the effectiveness of equine-assisted therapy on stress reduction.