The effect of Nintendo® Wii® on balance in people with multiple sclerosis: a pilot randomized control study

Mult Scler. 2013 Aug;19(9):1219-21. doi: 10.1177/1352458512472747. Epub 2013 Jan 15.

Abstract

Improvement of sensory strategies is a relevant part of balance rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis (MS). This study aimed to Assess the effectiveness of visual-feedback exercises in improving balance in MS. We divided 36 patients into Wii and control-treated groups that underwent balance rehabilitation. Outcomes were obtained for Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Modified Fatigue Impact Scale, and sway area under conditions of opened and closed eyes. BBS showed a statistically significant improvement (from 49.6 to 54.6 points, p < 0.05) in the Wii group. Interactive visual-feedback exercises such as Wii could be more effective than the current standard protocol in improving balance disorders in MS.

Keywords: Balance disorder; Berg Balance Scale; Modified Fatigue Impact Scale; exercise; interactive video; multiple sclerosis; rehabilitation; stabilometry; sway area; visual feedback.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Multiple Sclerosis / rehabilitation*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Postural Balance / physiology*
  • Video Games*