To evaluate the clinical impact of Wii-based interventions on balance, mobility, gait, and quality of life in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Conventional physical therapy remains the cornerstone of rehabilitation in PD, but adherence can be limited by monotony and accessibility barriers. Exergaming platforms, such as the Nintendo Wii, offer an interactive and attractive alternative by combining physical exercise with real-time visual feedback. These systems aim to enhance motor learning and neuroplasticity through task-specific, repetitive practice in a stimulating environment. However, the clinical effectiveness of Wii-based interventions compared to standard therapy remains uncertain, warranting systematic evaluation.

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing Wii-based interventions to conventional therapy. Outcomes included Berg Balance Scale (BBS), 10-Meter Walk Test (10-MWT), Timed Up and Go (TUG), Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), and Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire-39 (PDQ-39). Pooled estimates were calculated using random-effects models and expressed as mean differences (MD) or standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Seven trials were included. Wii-based therapy showed no significant advantage over conventional therapy for balance (BBS MD −0.06; 95% CI −1.49 to 1.37; I²=0%) or gait speed (10-MWT SMD −0.22; 95% CI −0.64 to 0.23; I²=0%). Mobility improvements were small and not statistically significant (TUG SMD −0.12; 95% CI −0.36 to 0.13; I²=36%). Gait adaptability showed a non-significant trend favoring control (DGI MD −0.65; 95% CI −1.71 to 0.40; I²=55%). Quality of life changes were minimal (PDQ-39 MD −1.71; 95% CI −5.34 to 1.92; I²=0%). Overall, Wii-based interventions were comparable to conventional therapy across all outcomes, with low to moderate heterogeneity.

Wii-based rehabilitation offers similar benefits to conventional therapy for balance, mobility, and quality of life in Parkinson’s disease. While not superior, its engaging nature may enhance adherence, supporting its role as an alternative or adjunct in rehabilitation programs.