The Wii Isn't Just Your Normal Video Game System

Needless to say, the Nintendo Wii System has been the craze amongst not only children but adults for the last couple years.This system simulates the activity therefore requiring the player to perform coordinated dynamic movements. Not only is this a great way to enjoy interactive games with friends, or do a work out but it may also improve your balance! A recent Case Report in the Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy suggests just that. The Wii Bowling game was used as the sole treatment for a 89 year old female patient with an unspecified balance disorder and a history of multiple falls. The patient participated in 6 bowling sessions for 60 minutes each over a 2 week period. The outcomes proved to be positive. The patient's clinical measures included the Berg Balance Scale, Dynamic Gait Index, Timed Up and Go Test and Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale; improvements were noted in all measurements.  Although this was a case report involving only one patient and a single examining physical therapist, it is great start in determining the effects of using the Wii in physical therapy treatments. Next time you are looking for an new and fun treatment approach to improve balance, take a look at the Wii!