Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder associated with impairments in balance, mobility, and postural control, leading to increased fall risk and reduced functional independence. Rhythmic, movement-based interventions benefit motor function in PD. Horse simulator devices, such as the Miracolt, replicate the multidimensional pelvic motion of horseback riding and may provide a safe and accessible therapeutic option. PURPOSE: To examine the effects of a short-term Miracolt horse simulator intervention on balance and functional mobility in individuals with PD. METHODS: Individuals with a clinical diagnosis of PD were recruited from community-based organizations. Participants completed three consecutive 20-minute sessions using the Miracolt horse simulator. Balance and functional mobility were assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Sharpened Romberg test, Single Leg Stance test, Timed Up and Go (TUG), and Dynamic Gait Index (DGI). Balance confidence and fall-related behaviors were assessed using the Activities Specific Balance confidence (ABC) scale and the Fear of Falling Avoidance Behavior Questionnaire (FFABQ). Data was analyzed using repeated-measures analyses and paired samples t-tests. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in static balance performance following the Miracolt intervention. The Sharpened Romberg test improved significantly from pre to post intervention (p=.035) along with the Single-Leg Stance (p=.001). While changes in functional mobility measures, including TUG and DGI, did not reach statistical significance (p > .05), both measures exhibited favorable directional changes with DGI increasing from M=17.00 (SD=3.46) to M=18.20 (SD=3.27) and TUG time decreasing from M=9.47s (SD=2.08) to M=8.54s (SD=1.98). A moderate effect size, Cohen’s d=.0.457 was found between pre and post measure for the TUG suggesting clinically meaningful improvements. FFBAQ scores increased from pre-intervention (M=6.81, SD=1.32) to post-intervention (M=7.58, SD=1.48), indicating reduced fear-related activity avoidance. Activities Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale scores showed a slight increase from pre-intervention (M=0.83, SD=0.77) to post-intervention (M=0.85, SD=0.86), suggesting relatively stable balance confidence across the intervention period. CONCLUSION: A short term Miracolt horse simulator intervention resulted in significant improvements in static balance. These initial findings support the potential use of horse simulator-based movement as a safe and accessible therapeutic strategy for addressing balance impairments in this population. The equine intervention portion of this study is planned for Spring 2026. Results will be compared with horse simulator training results.
Recommended Citation
browning, ryen; Crabb, Lauren; and Mikan, Vanessa
(2026)
"Equine Assisted Services versus Horse simulator Activity for Functional Ability in Parkinson's Disease,"
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 2:
Iss.
18, Article 133.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol2/iss18/133
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Health and Physical Education Commons, Medical Education Commons, Sports Sciences Commons