title: Kinematic effect of Nintendo Wii(TM) sports program exercise on obstacle gait in elderly women with falling risk.
abstract: [Purpose] This study evaluated the changes in balance ability and obstacle gait after lumbar stabilization exercise and Nintendo Wii(TM) Sports in elderly at risk for falls. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-four elderly women with at risk for falls were randomly divided into the control, lumbar stabilization exercise, and Nintendo Wii Sports groups. Static balance was measured by the Berg Balance Scale and functional reach test, dynamic balance by the timed up-and-go test, and obstacle negotiation function by crossing velocity and maximum vertical heel clearance. [Results] Both the lumbar stabilization exercise and Nintendo Wii Sports groups showed significant improvements in obstacle negotiation function after the exercise compared to the control group. Berg Balance Scale and functional reach test scores were greater in the lumbar stabilization exercise group, while the timed up-and-go test time was significantly better in the Nintendo Wii Sports groups. [Conclusion] Lumbar stabilization exercises and Nintendo Wii Sports improve falling related balance and obstacle negotiation function in elderly women at risk for falls.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy, Gwangju Health University, Republic of Korea.
authors.forename: Dae-In
authors.initials: DI
authors.lastname: Jung
authors.affiliation: Department of Emergency Medical Service, College of Health Science, Honam University, Republic of Korea.
authors.forename: Dae-Sik
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Ko
authors.affiliation: Department of Dental Hygiene, College of Health and Science, Kangwon National University, Republic of Korea.
authors.forename: Mi-Ae
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Jeong
keywords: Elderly women; Falls; Nintendo Wii Sports