The effect of video-based games on upper extremity function and activity participation in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy.

What was studied

This trial looked at kids with hemiparetic cerebral palsy. They were aged 7-13 years. Each child was put into a group by chance. One group had usual therapy called NDT, or neurodevelopmental therapy. The other group had NDT plus motion video games on Xbox Kinect. Both groups took part for 12 weeks. A tester who did not know the groups checked hand use and daily tasks.

What they found

In all, 24 kids finished, with 12 in each group. Both groups got better on all the tests. The games group gained more on a scale of help needed in daily tasks. It also gained more on a hand use survey. These gaps between groups were large in size. On a timed peg test, the gap between groups was not clear. Still, that gap was of medium size.

What it means for patients

The authors say adding video games to NDT may help these kids. It may help hand use in daily life and taking part in tasks. In this study, both groups got the same total amount of therapy. The authors see the games as a workable add-on to usual therapy. They say the fine hand skill result may hint at an effect.

Why it is not certain yet

Only 24 kids finished the study. The authors say larger studies are needed. Kids were tested only right after the 12 weeks. So it is not known if the gains last. The authors call for longer follow-up in future work. The peg test result needs more study to be clear.

Source

The effect of video-based games on upper extremity function and activity participation in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy.

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