Hippotherapy in the management of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Abstract

Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is an inherited condition marked by joint hypermobility, instability, chronic pain and fatigue, significantly impacting quality of life and autonomy. Management focuses solely on symptom alleviation. After experiencing a rapid decline in functional abilities, a patient in late adolescence with hypermobile EDS underwent hippotherapy rehabilitation (30 hours). She saw substantial improvements in fatigue, chronic pain and regained walking abilities. Hippotherapy played a crucial role in refining her postural balance, motor skills, proprioception, muscle function and endurance. It also positively affected her cognitive and emotional regulation by stimulating sensory inputs that activate neural pathways, providing relief from pain and fatigue. Notably, the patient transitioned from wheelchair reliance to walking with crutches, and then greatly enhanced both gait quality and speed. These findings demonstrate the relevance of hippotherapy for the rehabilitation of hypermobile EDS, reducing the need for pharmacological interventions and fostering a proactive approach to future challenges.