A randomized controlled pilot trial of game-based training in individuals with spinocerebellar ataxia type 3

Exergames are interactive video games used for exercise and may have therapeutic value in people with degenerative ataxia. The purpose of this study was to investigate potential effects of exergaming training on cerebellar ataxia in people with spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3). Nine individuals with SCA3 were recruited and randomized to either exergaming or conventional group for a 4-week training period. The severity of ataxia was measured as the primary outcome by the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) and by the directional control of the limit of stability test. The secondary outcomes included upper-limb function and gait performance. After training, participants in the exergaming group had a significant decrease in the total SARA score and the gait-posture SARA subscore. Participants in the conventional training group did not show a significant improvement in selected outcome measures after the 4-week training period. No significant difference was found between groups for any of these measures. Our results suggested that the exergaming training program significantly decreased ataxia. These results support implementation of exergaming training for people with SCA3.