Wii Therapy? A Cutting Edge Gaming System Offers a New Approach to Traditional Rehab

Cerebral Palsy is a neurologic disorder that results from a defect or insult to the immature brain and is one of the most common causes of motor disability in childhood. Children with cerebral palsy suffer from motor and cognitive disabilities, which usually require a variety of treatments over a long period of time. The Wii is a Nintendo gaming console created in 2006. Nintendo introduced the motion activated remote control and fit board to use along with the console. The fit board processes your movement, steps and balance and is a fun way to exercise. Could this video game prove to be efficient therapy for children with cerebral palsy?

Studies do show that Wii-based Balance Therapy is effective for children with ambulatory cerebral palsy. Results show that the Wii Fit is safe and enjoyable and can improve the static balance of those with CP. Health care professionals have begun to use interactive gaming systems and technology to help rehabilitate patients with musculoskeletal and neurologic conditions. It helps to direct the attention of the child away from the mundane and repetitive tasks of rehabilitation and allow them to “pretend” they are simply playing a video game. Wii-based balance training may be a preferable method of treatment for children with CP, however, it should be added along with conventional rehabilitation to see best results.

Studies of Wii-based treatment do show improvement in children’s balance and functional walking. It may not be suitable for every child with cerebral palsy but it may be just what your child needs.