Intensive strength and balance training with the Kinect console (Xbox 360) in a patient with CMT1A
Emanuela Pagliano1, Maria Foscan1, Alessia Marchi1
1a Developmental Neurology Unit , C. Besta Neurological Institute Foundation , Milan , Italy.
Background:
Effective drugs for type 1A Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT1A) disease are not available. Various forms of moderate exercise are beneficial, but few data are available on the effectiveness of exercise in CMT1A children.
Aim:
To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of exercises to improve ankle strength and limb function in a child with CMT1A.
Setting:
Outpatient clinic.
Population:
Nine-year-old boy with CMT1A.
Methods:
The rehabilitation program consisted of ankle exercises and Kinect videogame-directed physical activities (using an Xbox 360 console/movement sensor) that aimed to improve balance and limb strength. The program was given 3 times a week for 5 weeks. The child was assessed at baseline, after 5 weeks, and 3 and 6 months after.
Results:
By the end of follow-up, child balance and endurance had improved, but ankle strength did not.
Conclusions:
The encouraging results for balance and endurance justify further studies on videogame-directed activities in CMT1A children/adolescents.
