Wii training versus non-Wii task-specific training on motor learning in children with developmental coordination disorder: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Wii-based interventions have shown significant benefits in motor learning for children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD); however, studies comparing the effects of Wii interventions versus matched non-Wii interventions, such as task-specific training (TST), are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

We compared motor learning in children with DCD who participated in 12 sessions of Wii-based training and those participating in 12 closely matched non-Wii TST sessions as well as when the highest improvements in performance occurred.

METHODS

In total, 32 children with DCD (16 per group) were randomly allocated to receive the Wii intervention or TST during 12 sessions. Motor learning was assessed in 3 consecutive phases during the intervention and was determined by the mean of the games scores obtained in the: (1) first 4 sessions, (2) intermediate 4 sessions, and (3) last 4 sessions. Six different tasks (table tennis, frisbee, archery, bowling, tightrope walking/balance beam, and marble balance/balance disc) were performed in every session. Each session lasted 42min (time on task).

RESULTS

Wii training and TST elicited improvements in motor learning, as assessed by increased scores with the frisbee and marble balance/balance disc tasks. However, Wii training elicited better performance in the archery and bowling tasks, whereas only TST elicited improvements in the balance beam and table tennis tasks.

CONCLUSION

Wii training is not always superior to non-Wii training, and improvements are based on the type of task trained. Thus, each type of intervention benefits a certain skill.

The efficacy of two activity-based interventions in adolescents with Developmental Coordination Disorder

BACKGROUND

Adolescents with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) usually experience psychomotor difficulties that affect their participation in everyday tasks and sports. Without effective intervention, adolescents show persistent motor deficits through adulthood. It is therefore critical to develop interventions to address the specific needs of this population. Studies evaluating the impact of motor interventions among adolescents with DCD are limited.

AIM

The study evaluated the efficacy of two activity-based motor interventions in female adolescents with DCD.

METHODS AND PROCEDURES

Forty-three female participants (Mean±SD: 14.3±1.1years) were identified as having DCD using the DSM-5 criteria. They were randomly assigned to either Task-oriented Functional Training (TFT) or Wii training. Both groups received 45min training per week for 14 weeks. Outcome measures included isometric muscular strength, motor proficiency, functional performance and participation in activities of daily living (ADL).

OUTCOMES AND RESULTS

At the conclusion of the intervention, the two groups had significant improvement in muscular strength, motor proficiency, running and agility, predilection for physical activity and generalized self-efficacy. However, there was no difference in outcomes for the two interventions.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The findings highlight the potential benefits of activity-based motor interventions in reducing impairments, improving functional performance, and enhancing participation. These results support previous findings on the efficacy of task-oriented interventions and demonstrate the value of these approaches at all levels of functioning.