Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 12, 2026
Exergaming in Older People Living with HIV Improves Balance, Mobility and Ameliorates Some Aspects of Frailty
Published on: October 6, 2016
A feasibility randomised controlled trial of an exergaming device aimed at improving mobility in children with
Rachel Rapson1,2, Bernie Carter3, Harriet Hughes1,2
1Children and Family Health Devon, Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, Torquay, UK.
Aim:
A novel interactive exergaming device enables children with cerebral palsy (CP) to exercise whilst standing. A small study showed gains in ankle motion after training with the device. This study explores the feasibility of a community-based randomised controlled trial (RCT) using this device to improve mobility in children with CP (Registered ISRCTN80878394).
Method:
Fifteen children with CP Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I-III were randomised 1:1 to either 10-weeks training with the device or usual care. Two potential primary outcome measures were assessed at 10-weeks with 20-week follow up: motion of the centre-of-mass estimate while stepping (Next Step) and Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS).
Results:
Twenty-one children were assessed for eligibility, three declined to participate, two withdrew and one did not receive the intervention but remained in follow-up. Two serious adverse events occurred (n=2). Participant recruitment was 1.2 per month, limited by device availability. Completion of PBS and Next Step was 100% and 87% at baseline, dropping to 75% and 65% respectively at 10-weeks. The intervention group showed clinically meaningful changes in median (interquartile range) PBS at 10-weeks 2.7 (1) compared to the control 1.7 (0.67).
Conclusion:
This study found multiple feasibility issues and further work is needed prior to implementing a RCT. There were signs of efficacy of the intervention, but findings are limited by small sample size.
