Visual feedback training using WII Fit improves balance in Parkinson's disease
Zalecki, T.; Gorecka-Mazur, A.; Pietraszko, W.; Surowka, A.D.; Novak, P.; Moskala, M.; Krygowska-Wajs, A.
Folia Medica Cracoviensia 53(1): 65-78
2013
ISSN/ISBN: 0015-5616 PMID: 24858332 Document Number: 666188
Postural instability including imbalance is the most disabling long term problem in Parkinson's disease (PD) that does not respond to pharmacotherapy. This study aimed at investigating the effectiveness of a novel visual-feedback training method, using Wii Fit balance board in improving balance in patients with PD. Twenty four patients with moderate PD were included in the study which comprised of a 6-week home-based balance training program using Nintendo Wii Fit and balance board. The PD patients significantly improved their results in Berg Balance Scale, Tinnet's Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment, Timed Up-and-Go, Sit-to-stand test, 10-Meter Walk test and Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale at the end of the programme. This study suggests that visual feedback training using Wii-Fit with balance board could improve dynamic and functional balance as well as motor disability in PD patients.