The Effect of Wii Training on Neurocognitive Function in Athletes with Functional Ankle Instability: Matched Randomized Clinical Trial

Many studies have investigated ankle sprain injury and it has been reported that in 80% of cases, ankle sprains lead to functional ankle instability (FAI). The conventional exercises for FAI rehabilitation neglect the associated neurocognitive dysfunction.

This study aims to evaluate the effect of Wii Fit Plus as a virtual reality training on neurocognitive function in athletes with FAI compared to athletes without FAI.

In this matched randomized clinical trial study, 25 athletes with unilateral FAI and 25 athletes without FAI were assigned to two groups randomly: 1) the intervention group, subjects performed the Wii training including balance and strengthening games three times a week for 12 sessions and 2) subjects in the control group received no intervention. Before and after the training, the neurocognitive function was assessed through the computerized-reaction time test based on the detection or identification of ‘X’ mark on a computer monitor. Between-groups and within-group comparisons were done by the independent T-test and paired T-test, respectively.

A significant difference was observed in mean differences of neurocognitive function between athletes with and without FAI. Comprising before and after training was significant in the intervention group. 

Based on the results, the information-processing speed of athletes with FAI increased after the training, utilized for rehabilitation protocols.