Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Charlotte, N.C. – Many studies are being carried out on national levels to measure the effectiveness of using video games as a treatment option for patients. These studies have shown improvement in function, energy, expenditure and heart rate excursion.
Presbyterian Rehabilitation Center uses the Nintendo Wii as a rehab technique for patients of all ages from pediatrics to geriatric for balance to strength training. More specifically, physical therapists have recommended Wii video games to stroke patients, especially as a home exercise program if they already have the Wii.
Scott Feil, physical therapist at Presbyterian Rehabilitation Center says, “The Wii represents a safe, feasible and potentially effective alternative to facilitate rehabilitation therapy and promote motor recovery after stroke.”
Scott recalls a 54 year old patient who had a stroke and was paralyzed in her left upper and lower extremities. By the time she completed rehab, she had nearly recovered and was independent of activities of daily living and ambulation with no assistive device and was playing the Wii 15-20 per day, five days per week at her home, not only because it helped her return to function, but because it was fun as well.
Presbyterian Rehabilitation Center has been piloting Wii therapy throughout their various locations by way of a grant received from the Presbyterian Healthcare Foundation.
The Wii is a fun, effective therapy treatment that when used for 10-18 minutes per day, can be beneficial to a rehab patient.
For more information about Wiihab, contact Presbyterian Rehabilitation Center Matthews at (704) 384-6638 or Presbyterian Rehabilitation Center Steelecroft at (704) 316-1850.
