Curiously Awesome

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A number of physical therapy programs have now started to use the Nintendo Wii gaming system as part of treatments to help people recover from strokes and other central nervous system injuries.

One institution using the gaming system is the Dodd Hall Rehabilitation Hospital (part of the Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus).

Unlike traditional game consoles that are controlled by levers and buttons on hand-held devices, the Wii is controlled by a remote that is able to sense its position relative to a sensor. This allows the console to be controlled with three-dimensional movement and large-body gestures.

Dodd Hall purchased a Wii, and now their patients who are recovering from strokes, spinal injuries or brain trauma are able to use the Wii approximately 30 minutes a day for two to three days each week.

The Wii helps physical therapy patients improve their balance, coordination, upper and lower body strength, and general stamina. Patients use the Wii not just to play games but also to look up news or other information through an Internet connection. This activity helps patients maintain and improve their mental functioning.

There are also patients who use the Wii to play bowling or boxing games that require full-body movement. This builds coordination and strength.