Os benefícios da equoterapia em crianças com síndrome de Down: uma revisão integrativa

Abstract

Down Syndrome is a genetic condition caused by trisomy 21, which leads to an inadequate chromosomal distribution during the meiosis phase. This condition causes cognitive, intellectual and mainly physical-motor changes, resulting in changes that can generate functional impacts. As for physiotherapy, several methods can be used and the treatment must be individually designed, aiming to stimulate motor development, generating greater independence and self-confidence. Among the treatment methods proposed for these patients,

equine therapy stands out as it offers several benefits, through the horse for its three- dimensional movement that provides neuropsychomotor stimuli, promoting evolution and

improvement in motor development, in addition to positively influencing biopsychosocial issues. The main objective of this study is to highlight the benefits of hippotherapy listed in the literature for children with Down Syndrome. This is an integrative literature review of an exploratory and basic nature, which was carried out through publications in the SciELO, LILACS, and MedLine databases, seeking to respond to the problematization of the present study. In the search results, 28 articles were found, only 10 of which were used to better present the results of the study. In all selected articles, hippotherapy showed benefits in relation to these children's motor skills, including muscle tone, motor coordination, balance, muscle strengthening and improved posture. It was concluded that hippotherapy as a therapeutic method for children diagnosed with Down syndrome provides benefits in the functional improvement of these children, contributing positively to the acquisition of motor capacity, promoting autonomy and quality of life.