Impact of a Standardized Equine Mediation Program on the Evolution of the Psycho-behavioral Profile of Adults With Traumatic Brain Injuries Experiencing Impaired Quality of Life (EPONA).

In France, 155,000 traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are treated annually, representing a major public health challenge. The sequelae vary depending on the lesions and include a range of motor disorders as well as complex cognitive and psycho-behavioral impairments that significantly affect autonomy. Psycho-behavioral disorders are present in 75% of cases and hinder the process of social reintegration. The relationships between quality of life, social functioning, and psycho-behavioral profiles raise significant questions within the scientific and medical communities, emphasizing the need for the development of specific care programs for this population. While non-pharmacological interventions are recommended as a first-line approach at all stages of care, existing therapeutic programs have not demonstrated sufficient effectiveness. As maintaining TBI patients within their communities becomes a priority, aligned with ministerial and HAS (French National Health Authority) recommendations, equine mediation appears to hold significant potential, particularly for addressing psycho-behavioral disorders. These therapeutic techniques have gained considerable traction in recent years, with literature reviews indicating effectiveness across diverse populations (e.g., Autism, Mental Health). However, to our knowledge, no studies have evaluated the potential benefits of equine mediation for TBI patients. In light of these observations, the EPONA study aims to assess the impact of a standardized horse-assisted therapeutic program on the evolution of the psycho-behavioral profile of TBI patients. The secondary objectives of the study are to measure the impact of this program on the evolution of motor and cognitive profiles, psychological pain, the level of autonomy, social participation, and quality of life. The primary judgment criterion evaluates the psycho-behavioral profile Brief-A Behavioral Regulation Index Roth 2005 The secondary judgment criteria evaluate impairments ac