Lechner HE, Kakebeeke TH, Hegermann D, Baumberger M
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (2007) 

Description
To determine the effect of hippotherapy on spasticity and on mental well-being of persons with spinal cord injury (SCI), and to compare it with the effects of other interventions.

Results
By analyzing the clinically rated spasticity, only the effect of hippotherapy reached significance compared with the control condition (without intervention); median differences in the Ashworth scores’ sum before and after hippotherapy sessions ranged between −8.0 and +0.5. There was a significant difference between the spasticity-reducing effect of hippotherapy and the other 2 interventions in self-rated spasticity by VAS; median differences of the VAS before and after hippotherapy sessions ranged between −4.6 and +0.05cm. There were no long-term effects on spasticity. Immediate improvements in the subjects’ mental well-being were detected only after hippotherapy (P=.048).

Conclusion
Hippotherapy is more efficient than sitting astride a Bobath roll or on a rocking seat in reducing spasticity temporarily. Hippotherapy had a positive short-term effect on subjects’ mental well-being. 

Exner G, Engelmann A, Lange K, Wenck B
Die Rehabilitation (1994) 

Description
A total of 67 patients, both paraplegic and quadriplegic, had participated in a hippotherapy programme over a study period of almost 18 months, with positive effects found relative to spasticity, certain pain syndromes, as well as contraction syndromes associated with impaired joint mobility.  

Conclusion
Along with these statistically supported findings, a number of associated effects were noted in the physiotherapy and, especially, the nursing sectors, with easier catheterization, more rhythmical bowel function, more balanced mood with improved sleep, and a generally increased openness and motivation. Hippotherapy has proven a valid method within a synergistic approach for comprehensive care in paraplegia.