Core Stability Exercises vs Hippotherapy for Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is associated with impaired balance and trunk control, which affect functional mobility and independence. This randomized clinical trial compares the effects of core stability exercises versus hippotherapy, both combined with conventional physiotherapy, on balance and trunk control in children with spastic cerebral palsy. The findings aim to determine which intervention provides greater improvement in functional outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria: * Children aged 4-8 years were included. * Children diagnosed with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy were included. * Children classified as Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) Levels I-II were included. * Children with adequate cognitive function, as assessed using the WeeFIM Cognitive Subscale, were included. * Parents or legal guardians who provided written informed consent for participation were included Exclusion Criteria: * Children with severe cognitive impairment preventing them from understanding or following instructions were excluded. * Children with uncontrolled seizures or other medical conditions contraindicating physical activity were excluded. * Children with a history of orthopedic surgery or botulinum toxin (Botox) injections within the previous six months were excluded. * Children with other neurological disorders or severe musculoskeletal deformities that could interfere with balance, trunk control, or participation in the intervention were excluded.