The Effect of Therapeutic Horseback Riding on 5 Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Pilot Study

Abstract Objectives: The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the effects of therapeutic horseback riding on behavior, health-related quality of life, and motor performance in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Design: The study employed a time series quasi-experimental design with two pretests and two post-tests conducted 8 weeks apart. Setting/location: The study was conducted at a riding school in Levanger, Norway. Subjects: The subjects comprised a convenience sample of 5 children aged 10–11 years with ADHD. Methods: Subjects received a 1-hour therapeutic horseback riding twice a week for 8 weeks as intervention. Outcome measures: Behavior and health-related quality of life was assessed using Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and The KINDLR–Health-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire, respectively. The Modified Function-Neurological Assessment and the Movement Assessment Battery for Children assessed the subject's motor performance. Results: The pre- and ...