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Wii games and stroke recovery - Stroke Association comments
Wii games could be customised to offer bespoke physiotherapy for stroke survivors in their own home, according to research led by Lancaster University.
A preliminary study showed that playing specially adapted Wii games improved the arm movements of stroke patients, with a threefold increase in their ability to pick up and put pegs in holes.
Dr Shamim Quadir, Research Communications Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “Upper limb weakness affects up to 85% of stroke survivors. This can all too often lead to a devastating loss of independence. One in three stroke survivors rely on someone to help with daily living activities, such as dressing or making a cup of tea.
“This research is still in its very early stages, but its findings suggest that harnessing the power of the Wii could be used in the future to help stroke patients regain their arm movement. Larger trials are needed establish whether this is possible.
“Technologies such as these could become a cost effective way of helping patients in their recovery from the devastating impact of stroke.”