It seems that the Wii is not only great for a round of Mario Kart but is also an effective rehabilitation tool for stroke survivors, studies show. The most common disabilities resulting from strokes are paralysis, limb control problems, standing balance and mobility difficulties. On the Nintendo Wii Fit, patients can visually identify their progress, it’s an effective way to build up their motor function and confidence whilst having fun. As well as being very economical, another benefit is that the game allows patients to see their centre of gravity displayed on the screen, which is vital for when learning how to walk. In fact, studies show that virtual reality games in stroke rehabilitation is a beneficial adjunct to traditional therapies.
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References:
DailyTeach (2009) [Online] Available at: http://www.dailytech.com/Nintendo+Wii+Fit+Being+Used+for+Physiotherapy+in+UK+Hospital/article13861.htm (Accessed 27th of April 2015)
HSF (2012) [Online] Available at: http://www.heartandstroke.com/site/c.ikIQLcMWJtE/b.8457705/k.1CBF/Video_games_show_promise_in_stroke_rehab.htm (Accessed 26th of April 2015)
Gizmag (2014) [Online] Available at: http://www.gizmag.com/adapted-wii-stroke-arm-rehabilitation/35153/ (Accessed 27th of April 2015)
Jintronix (2012) [Online] Available at: http://www.jintronix.com/kinect-vs-nintendo-wii-a-physical-therapy-perspective/ (Accessed 26th of April 2015)
Image courtesy of atibodyphoto FreeDigitalPhotos.com.net available on: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net [Online] (Accessed 7th June, 2015)