Horses Ease Acute Pain, Study Finds
A recent study published in Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology has revealed an intriguing benefit of human-horse interaction: it can reduce the perception of acute pain in participants. This finding adds to a growing body of evidence that underscores the significant role horses play in human physiology and well-being.
Historically, the horse has been a central figure in human life, and its importance remains unchanged today. Beyond its role in sports, the horse serves as a social tool for inclusion, insertion, emotional well-being, cohesion, and barrier breakdown. This was evident in the 'OverPonyMotricità' project initiated by the University of Naples Federico II.
Interacting with horses influences human physiological parameters, as demonstrated by various studies. A 2024 study published in iScience found that heart rate variability (HRV) synchronizes between humans and horses during free interaction. The intensity of this interaction, from eye contact to petting, correlates with the coherence between their heartbeats. This 'horse's heart field' effect, though not literally five times stronger than the human's, effectively describes the calm many people experience. Studies have also observed that interacting with horses can decrease heart rate and improve sleep quality.
The horse's role in human life extends far beyond transportation and sport. Scientific evidence confirms that interactions with horses have measurable effects on human physiology, including heart synchronization and inner chaos calming. With institutional recognition in projects like 'OverPonyMotricità' and 'Pony & Pediatric Oncology', the horse's growing social role is undeniable. As research continues, we can expect to see more benefits of this unique human-animal bond.
