Using the Wii Fit to assist patients with ambulating with a transfemoral prosthesis

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22441325

J Geriatr Phys Ther. 2012 Apr-Jun;35(2):95-104.

Using the nintendo wii fit and body weight support to improve aerobic capacity, balance, gait ability, and fear of falling: two case reports.

Miller CA, Hayes DM, Dye K, Johnson C, Meyers J.

Source

Doctorate Program in Physical Therapy, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega, Georgia.

Abstract

BACKGROUND & PURPOSE:

: Lower limb amputation in older adults has a significant impact on balance, gait, and cardiovascular fitness, resulting in diminished community participation. The purpose of this case study was to describe the effects of a balance training program utilizing the Nintendo Wii™ Fit (Nintendo of America, Inc, Redmond, Washington) balance board and body- weight supported gait training on aerobic capacity, balance, gait, and fear of falling in two persons with transfemoral amputation.

CASE DESCRIPTIONS:

: Participant A, a 62 year-old male 32 months post traumatic transfemoral amputation, reported fear of falling and restrictions in community activity. Participant B, a 58 year-old male 9 years post transfemoral amputation, reported limited energy and balance deficits during advanced gait activities.

INTERVENTION:

: 6-weeks, 2 supervised sessions per week included 20 minutes of Nintendo™ Wii Fit Balance gaming and 20 minutes of gait training using Body Weight Support.

OUTCOMES:

: Measures included oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES), economy of movement, dynamic balance (Biodex platform system), Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale, and spatial-temporal parameters of gait (GAITRite). Both participants demonstrated improvement in dynamic balance, balance confidence, economy of movement, and spatial-temporal parameters of gait. Participant A reduced the need for an assistive device during community ambulation. Participant B improved his aerobic capacity, indicated by an increase in OUES.

DISCUSSION:

: This case study illustrated that the use of Nintendo Wii™ Fit training and Body Weight Support were effective interventions to achieve functional goals for improving balance confidence, reducing use of assistive devices, and increasing energy efficiency when ambulating with a transfemoral prosthesis.