A child rides a horse under the guidance of an instructor. [Photo/IC]

A groundbreaking clinical trial on equine-assisted intervention for children with autism launched in Hangzhou on June 5.

Led by the National Center for Children's Health and Zhejiang University Children's Hospital, the project marks China's first large-scale randomized trial evaluating the effectiveness of equine therapy for autism.

Jointly supported by the Zhejiang Provincial Welfare Foundation for the Disabled and professional equestrian organizations like B&G Equestrian Club, the project combines medical expertise with equine training facilities to explore new rehabilitation pathways.

Equine-assisted therapy, widely used in the West, remains rare in China. The trial, involving five to six groups of children, offers bi-weekly two-hour sessions. It leverages the rhythmic movement of horseback riding and human-animal interaction to enhance sensory integration, balance, and social engagement.

Preliminary observations show improved attention and engagement among participants. The research will also track changes in sensory function, motor skills, gut microbiota, and emotional cognition, aiming to establish scientific evidence for equine therapy as a viable treatment option for autism.

A child touches a horse. [Photo/IC]