2.3. Data analysis

The description of each study’s aim, characteristics of participants, organization of equine intervention (frequency, number of sessions, etc.), contents of interventions, health measures assessed, and results were summarized in a review matrix. For each study and according to the health outcome measures (physical, psychological, or physiological), the statistical results before and after EAI were screened. For studies with control groups (and when data were available), a group by time interaction was screened. Discussions between authors (L. Badin, N. Bailly, and K. Pothier) were held to validate the conclusions and clarify any discrepancies to reach a mutual consensus. The summary tables of evidence are classified according to research design, as shown in Table 1 (randomized control trial studies), Table 2 (non-randomized control trial studies), and Table 3 (single group studies).

Summary table of evidence for Randomized Control Trials studies (n = 5).

Note: BBS = Berg Balance Scale. CG = control group. EAA = equine assisted activities. EAT = equine-assisted therapy. EEG = electroencephalogram. FRT = Functional Reach Test. MH = mechanical horseback riding. ns = not significant. TE = traditional exercise. TR = Treadmil. TUG = times up & go. 30CST = 30-s Chair Stand Test. (+) : significant difference (post-test > pre-test). (−) : significant difference (post-test < pre-test). Quality of studies (Downs and Black checklist): total score/28 (reporting/11, external validity/3, internal validity bias/7, internal validity/6, power/1).

Summary table of evidence for Non-Randomized Control Trials studies (n = 4).

Note: BBS = Berg Balance Scale. CoP = center of pressure. CG = control group. EAA = equine assisted activities. EAT = equine-assisted therapy. EEG = electroencephalogram. NI = no information. ns = not significant. TUG = Times Up & Go. (+) : significant difference(post-test > pre-test). (−) : significant difference (post-test < pre-test). Quality of studies (Downs and Black checklist): total score/28 (reporting/11, external validity/3, internal validity bias/7, Internal validity/6, power/1).

Summary table of evidence for single group (pre/post-test) studies (n = 4).

Note: CoP = center of pressure. EAT = equine-assisted therapy. EMG = electromyography. LTC = long-term care facilities. MMSE = Mini-Mental State Evaluation. ns = not significant. QoL = quality of life. TUG = Times Up & Go. 30CST = 30-s Chair Stand Test. (+) : significant difference (post-test > pre-test). (−) : significant difference(post-test < pre-test).