Effect of Wii training on hand function in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy

Abstract

ABSTRACTObjective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Wii training on hand function in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in 40 children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (8–12 years). The experimental group received Wii training involving four games for 40 minutes a day, three times a week for 12 weeks plus usual care. The control group received usual care alone. Outcomes were spasticity measured using the modified Ashworth scale, grip strength measured using dynamometry, and hand function measured using the Peabody developmental motor scale (2nd ed.). Outcomes were measured at baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention. Results: Spasticity in the experimental group decreased by 0.4 out of 4.0 (95% CI 0.1 to 0.8) more than the control group by 12 weeks. Power grip strength increased by 1.6 kg (95% CI 0.7 to 2.5) and pinch grip strength by 1.2 kg (95% CI 0.8 to 1.6) more than the control group by 12 weeks. Hand function increased by 6 out of 52 (95% CI 5 to 7) more than the control group by 12 weeks. Conclusion: Wii training plus usual care decreases spasticity and increases grip strength and hand function in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.