Gamertell

Revolution was what Nintendo had initially christened the Wii. The Wii has apparently lived up to its initial name by revolutionizing the video games industry. Beyond its impact on the games industry, it has also been touted as a fitness machine of sorts, though many studies in recent times have rebuffed it as a substitute for conventional exercise.

It seems that such studies are not going to alter the widespread perception of the Wii as a fitness machine. At least its fans in the medical world, who are increasingly using it for rehabilitation and therapeutic purposes, are undeterred by such studies.

Wii-habilitation is the new term that medical practitioners have coined for Wii-aided rehabilitation. More and more rehabs are turning towards the Wii because it is fun and physical at the same time. The Wii can get the patients off the couch and on their feet.

As different games flex different muscle groups, it can be used to help patients recuperate from different medical ailments. It also can be used to help less mobile patients recover. Jeff Brandenburg, a therapist at Van Matre HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital, told WREX-TV 13 News that not only the younger patients but the older lot are also playing and they don’t realize how hard they are working.

The Rockford, IL, based Van Matre is one of the many rehab centers currently exploring the idea of using the Wii for therapeutic purposes.

Read [WREX-TV]