Wii Fitness Programs Now Part of Therapy from

Nantucket Cottage Hospital Rehabilitation Department

The era of digitally-guided rehabilitation therapy arrived at Nantucket Cottage Hospital in the fall of 2010.

Nintendo’s Wii, the well-known digital gaming and fitness system, now benefits the Hospital’s rehab patients in physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. Using a system of computer-based remote controls and television screens,this innovative technology helps therapists guide patients through exercises focused on balance, strength, flexibility and cognition.

Effective with all age groups, the Wii Fit programs help therapists to address functional deficits in patients. A tilt table game, for example, focuses on forward, backward and side-to-side weight-shifting motions. With the Wii system, therapists also help patients with injuries return to sports activities such as golf, tennis, baseball and surfing. The human touch remains, though, as the Hospital’s rehab therapists continue to practice manual techniques, therapeutic exercises, patient education and other modalities that ensure a comprehensive rehabilitation program for our patients.

Purchase of the system for the Rehabilitation Department at Nantucket Cottage Hospital was funded by donations and through the Hospital’s annual “Kids Helping Kids” fundraiser-walk. If you are interested in more information about the use of the Wii Fit program, please call the Rehabilitation Department at 508-825-8191, or talk to your doctor.