Introducing Wii Fit Computer Console Into Physiotherapy Departments To Aid The Rehabilitation Of Young Patients

Main Category: Rehabilitation / Physical Therapy
Also Included In: IT / Internet / E-mail
Article Date: 22 Oct 2008 - 4:00 PDT

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Two Lancashire hospitals have taken the unusual step of introducing the Wii Fit computer console into their Physiotherapy Departments to aid the rehabilitation of young patients.

The idea was the brainchild of a 12-year old patient and staff at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which run Chorley and South Ribble Hospital and Royal Preston Hospital, have purchased two game consoles and fitness games to benefit youngsters undergoing treatment.

The Nintendo Wii Fit aims to promote health and fitness through active games.

Lesley Walters, Head of Physiotherapy, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We provide a paediatric and adolescent physiotherapy service. One of our patients suggested it would be a good idea and new and fun way to get youngsters to undertake physiotherapy.

"Physiotherapy sessions for children and young people often use play or diversion techniques to get them to overcome any discomfort or stiffness they may feel.

"Wii Fit is a great way of using computer games to stimulate interest while performing exercises which can be uncomfortable.

"We encourage people to have fun while undergoing physiotherapy and the use of a computer games console which encourages fitness is a fantastic innovation for physiotherapy.

"Two consoles have been purchased and we will be using them in our paediatric and adolescent physiotherapy services at Chorley and South Ribble Hospital and Royal Preston Hospital. It is being used in an increasing number of NHS Physiotherapy departments and I'm sure that it will prove very popular in Lancashire."

The consoles were purchased with funds from the Incubator Appeal which uses donated loose change, old money and foreign currency for good causes at the Trust.

Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust