Wii-based balance therapy to improve balance function of children with cerebral palsy: A pilot study


TARAKCI D., Ozdincler A. R., TARAKCI E., Tutuncuoglu F., Ozmen M.

Journal of Physical Therapy Science, cilt.25, sa.9, ss.1123-1127, 2013 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 25 Sayı: 9
  • Basım Tarihi: 2013
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1589/jpts.25.1123
  • Dergi Adı: Journal of Physical Therapy Science
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.1123-1127
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Cerebral palsy, Balance, Nintendo (R) Wii Fit
  • İstanbul Medipol Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

[Purpose] Cerebral palsy is a sensorimotor disorder that affects the control of posture and movement. The Nintendo® Wii Fit offers an inexpensive, enjoyable, suitable alternative to more complex systems for children with cerebral palsy. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacacy of Wii-based balance therapy for children with ambulatory cerebral palsy. [Subjects] This pilot study design included fourteen ambulatory patients with cerebral palsy (11 males, 3 females; mean age 12.07 ± 3.36 years). [Methods] Balance functions before and after treatment were evaluated using one leg standing, the functional reach test, the timed up and go test, and the 6-minute walking test. The physiotherapist prescribed the Wii Fit activities,and supervised and supported the patients during the therapy sessions. Exercises were performed in a standardized program 2 times a week for 12 weeks. [Results] Balance ability of every patient improved. Statistically significant improvements were found in all outcome measures after 12 weeks. [Conclusion] The results suggest that the Nintendo® Wii Fit provides a safe, enjoyable, suitable and effective method that can be added to conventional treatments to improve the static balance of patients with cerebral palsy; however, further work is required.