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Patients Playing Their Way to Recovery

Billy Amon

Billy Amon

Posted Feb. 21, 2008
Tagged: , ,

Nintendo Wii

Patients have long complained about the repetitiveness and dullness of physical therapy, but it appears hospitals have now found an exciting solution.  Hospitals all over the country are realizing the potential of using the Nintendo Wii video game system as a form of treatment during rehabilitation and physical therapy.

Dubbed "Wiihabilitation" or "Wiihab" by bloggers, writers, and doctors, rehabilitation with the Wii operates much like traditional rehabilitation.  Similar body movements are required, but patients have the added bonus of being more interested in their therapy.  With the Wii providing motivation and distraction, patients are able to push through discomfort and continue to work toward recovery.

The Telegraph notes that the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC uses Wii rehabilitation on many patients injured in Iraq.  The Pioneer Press points out that the Wii is so popular at rehabilitation centers in the Twin Cities that "researchers at the Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Center in Minneapolis are even preparing a study of the Wii and whether its hyperactive games can improve patient outcomes."  One success story the article mentions is the following:

A 78-year-old with a spinal cord injury was so enthused by the Wii tennis game at Sister Kenny that he surpassed his therapists' goals and is planning real matches with friends again.

Take a look at this CNN news segment on the utilization of Wii as part of therapy:

[youtube: Missing YouTube video ] 

Does the merging of the Nintendo Wii and medicine excuse one of our most beloved pastimes?  What about the recent news regarding thousands of injuries being blamed on the Wii?  What do you think?

Are there any Wii games available that you control with your feet?  If so, that may be part of the treatment plan for my fiancé, who recently tore and sprained ligaments in her foot.  Otherwise, she may find herself wishing it had been her hand; that way, she could have at least scored some Wii play out of the accident.

(Thanks to willster for the image.)

I have personally seen the high costs and inner workings of the health care system. My best friend was in a coma for 12 days and had brain surgery. My mom battled leukemia for 10 months and passed away in February of 2007. I know firsthand that our health care system is in dire need of change and am personally dedicated to working to bring about that change.

I am the Online Community Manager for Trusera. Previously, I was the content manager for the Qvisory Health blog. I live with my wife, dog, and two cats in Seattle, WA. See Billy Amon's other posts and profile.

Got an opinion? Speak out on news and issues. Submit a blog post or video to Qvisory.

1 Comment

Billy Amon
03/12/08 09:26 PM

Interesting side note: I just got a Wii as a present from a friend.

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