A ‘Wii’ Bit of Research
Preview: CSM 2009
It seems PTs across the country recognize the physical therapy benefits of the Nintendo Wii gaming system--and finally there is proof of these benefits. A case study from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey is believed to be the first published research using the Wii for rehabilitation.
In the study, a 13-year-old male patient with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy participated in 11 training sessions over a four-week period. Each session lasted 60 to 90 minutes and incorporated Wii sports games software, such as boxing, tennis, bowling and golf.
The report noted measured improvements in visual-perceptual processing, postural control and functional mobility.
"This case study shows that the Wii may give us additional tools to complement the standard of care, perhaps make it more diverse," said Judith E. Deutsch, PT, PhD, lead researcher of the study, in a press release.
On Wednesday, February 11, from 1:00 to 3:45 p.m., Dr. Deutsch and others will present "Technology SIG Feature Programming: The Use of the Wii and Related Technology in Physical Therapy" at CSM.
For the last eight years, Dr. Deutsch's work has concentrated on virtual reality-based stroke rehabilitation.
Have you used the Nintendo Wii, or a similar gaming system, in your treatment? If so, what was your experience?