Equine Therapy and Center of Pressure

The American Journal of Occupational Therapy published research on measuring the center of pressure (COP) during equine therapy. Using an electronic pressure mat, the study compared the center of pressure in 4 children without disabilities to 4 riders with cerebral palsy when riding. Significant differences were noted in anteroposterior range of COP motion, mediolateral range of COP motion, and mediolateral COP velocity. No significant difference was measured in anteroposterior COP velocity. The researchers concluded that measuring the center of pressure could be utilized as an indicator of core stability.

Reference: Clayton HM, Kaiser LJ, de Pue B, Kaiser L. Center-of-pressure movements during equine-assisted activities Am J Occup Ther. 2011 Mar-Apr;65(2):211-6.