BACKGROUND: Virtual gaming systems offer new possibilities for home-based exercises (HBE) in rehabilitation. Pilot studies with stroke patients indicate that the application of Nintendo Wii® (WII) is practicable and can improve balance under clinical conditions. However, larger trials are necessary to verify these positive effects after discharge from the hospital. AIM: This study aims to prepare and optimize a phase III trial which compares the effects of two HBE programs for stroke patients. METHODS: A pilot study with randomized control design and repeated measures over three-months will be conducted. Twenty elderly stroke patients will be randomly allocated to an experimental group (EG) and a control group (CG). All participants will receive an introduction to a HBE program by an individual mentoring over 6 weeks. During the following 6 weeks the participants perform the HBE on their own. The EG will perform a balance exercise program using the WII, the CG will perform a balance exercise program without technical support. Recruiting potential, the participants' acceptance of the intervention and economic aspects will be examined. Additionally, basic information about sensitivity of change and potential effect sizes regarding the proposed instruments to measure mobility are expected.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
14
Wii-Fit Balance games (Soccer Heading, Ski Slalom, Table Tilt, Balance Bubble etc.)
Simple balance exercises with own body weight (Single limb stance, stepping, side sways etc.)
Hospital "BG-Kliniken Bergmannstrost"
Halle, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
University Hospital Halle
Halle, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
Feasibility
Recruiting potential, the participants' acceptance/satisfaction of the intervention and economic aspects
Time frame: 12-weeks
Mobility
Berg Balance Scale, Dynamic Gait Index, Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test, Activities-Specific Balance Confidence Scale
Time frame: Baseline - after 6 weeks - after 12 weeks
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