| Abstract [eng] |
Master thesis comprises a theoretical analysis of posture and factors affecting it. An introduction to the capabilities of the therapeutic horse riding method in correcting asymmetrical posture, based on the scientific research. Hypothesis has been raised, that the application of therapeutic riding improves posture, because it normalizes the balance of isometric trunk muscle strength, backbone mobility gets more symmetrical. Isometric muscle strength and backbone mobility is affected when periodicity of sessions is more intense, while positive postural changes appear when therapeutic riding is applied for a longer period of time. Employing the methods of testing and linear experiment, a research has been conducted, the aim of which - to assess the changes of asymmetrical posture caused by therapeutic riding of diverse intensity. A statistical data analysis (arithmetic mean, ± standard error, statistical reliability data analysis) was completed. Ten schoolchildren with asymmetrical postures and with no previous horse-riding experience were selected, using convenience sampling, to participate in the research. Empirical part analyzes the alterations in asymmetrical posture, backbone mobility, isometric muscle strength and balance when therapeutic horse riding program is applied. The key conclusions of empirical analysis: 4. Correct posture - a habitual position, when a person, without tightening any muscles, is able to keep his trunk and head straight. Posture is determined by the balance between skeletal and muscular systems. Asymmetrical posture is a result of muscular imbalance that causes incorrect proportions among different parts of the body. During the period of adolescence skeletal growth is the most intense, therefore, in the case of insufficient physical load and bad habits, asymmetrical posture often emerges. 5. Intense sessions of therapeutic riding demonstrated a statistically significant effect on isometric back and side muscle strength as well as on backbone sideways mobility. Less intense sessions did not demonstrate a statistically significant effect on increasing muscle strength and improving backbone mobility. Balance discrepancies of isometric muscle strength decreased statistically significantly in both groups, although more pronounced changes occurred in the group, for which more intense therapeutic riding sessions were applied. In the course of experiment, the tendencies of posture improvement were noticed, but statistically significant changes occurred only in the group, for which therapeutic riding sessions took place for a longer period of time. 6. Isometric muscle strength is better increased by intense physical load. Strength increase does not always determine the decrease of muscle balance discrepancies. When balance of muscle isometric strength normalizes, backbone movements become more symmetric. It has a positive effect on a posture. The effect of therapeutic riding sessions of diverse intensity on the process of normalizing isometric muscle strength, and, consequently, posture, is similar. Whereas posture is related to a habit, therapeutic riding sessions intended for posture correction should be applied for a longer period of time. |
