Abstract
Objective: This research study aimed to determine if the Nintendo Wii Fit™ video gaming program and its balance games could improve balance in child, age eight, with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) or hypotonia when used as a primary intervention tool. Recent studies have been completed recently as to the effectiveness of the Nintendo Wii Fit™ system as an intervention tool, concluding with positive results. However, there are limited studies focusing on the pediatric population and even less ones concentrating on children with disorders that directly affect their balance capabilities, such as DCD. Method: This single-subject case study involved the participation of a child that has been diagnosed with DCD or related movement deficits to perform selected Nintendo Wii Fit™ balance exercises in a controlled clinical environment three times a week over the course of six weeks. The study consisted of one participant, aged eight, who was diagnosed with hypotonia and was not currently receiving physical therapy. The participant completed six different balance exercises for a total of 18 minutes during each visit. Before starting the intervention, the participant was shown proper use the Nintendo Wii Fit™ gaming system and given a trial run, to assist with alleviating any learning curves. At all times during the study, the participant was in a safe, controlled environment completing tasks that required no more challenge to a child’s balance than is experienced during normal daily activities. A pre- and post-intervention assessment utilizing the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) measured the participant’s balance improvement. Results: At the conclusion of the study, the child was shown to have improved his PBS score by 4 points, advancing from the medium fall risk category to the low fall risk category. Conclusion: While more extensive studies need to be completed, the results found support the Nintendo Wii Fit™ system as a valuable intervention tool for pediatric populations with balance deficits.