Wii-based interactive video games as a supplement to conventional therapy for rehabilitation of children with cerebral palsy: A pilot, randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of interactive video gaming (IVG) with Nintendo Wii (Wii) supplemented to conventional therapy in rehabilitation of children with cerebral palsy (CP).

DESIGN

Randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded study.

PARTICIPANTS

Children with CP; 10 children each in the control and intervention groups.

INTERVENTION

IVG using Wii, given as a supplement to conventional therapy, for 45 min per day, 6 days a week for 3 weeks. The children in the control group received conventional therapy alone.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Posture control and balance, upper limb function, visual-perceptual skills, and functional mobility.

RESULTS

Significant improvement in upper limb functions was seen in the intervention group but not in the control group. Improvements in balance, visual perception, and functional mobility were not significantly different between control and intervention groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Wii-based IVG may be offered as an effective supplement to conventional therapy in the rehabilitation of children with CP.