› Have Wii, will walk
Scientists at Bloorview and the University of Toronto are studying the therapeutic value of Nintendo’s Wii Fit for children learning to walk with a prosthetic leg. Children with above-and below-knee amputations need to distribute weight evenly over both legs to get a smooth gait and prevent future physical problems. But because the feel of their prosthetic leg is new, they often compensate by relying more heavily on their intact leg.

Researchers hope that using Wii Fit as a home therapy will motivate them to move in a way that promotes full use of their prosthetic leg. The study began by testing 10 able-bodied children using Wii Fit, to see which movements its games elicit. Based on these findings, researchers are designing home-therapy programs for six children aged six to 16 with amputations. Their balance and functioning will be tested before they begin use, and then at four weeks and 12 weeks.

› Does ‘trust hormone’ play a role in treating autism?
Bloorview researchers are conducting a randomized trial to see if Oxytocin improves social functioning in children with autism. Oxytocin is a hormone released during women’s labour and milk let-down, and animal research shows it plays a role in social memory, trust and attachment. Twenty-six children aged eight to 17 will receive Oxytocin nasal spray or a placebo over 12 weeks. Preliminary studies of the hormone in adults with autism showed improvements in social cognition and repetitive behaviours. “This is promising,” says Dr. Evdokia Anagnostou, clinician scientist at Bloorview and principal investigator. Results are expected in two years.

› Alternative therapies popular in chronic conditions
Complementary and alternative medicine is used in over 50 per cent of children with chronic, recurrent or incurable conditions, according to a report by the American Academy of Pediatrics published in Pediatrics. Common types of therapies in children include multivitamins, herbs and other dietary supplements, chiropractic care, massage, prayer, progressive relaxation exercises, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis and acupuncture. The report found 66 per cent of caregivers did not tell their child’s doctor about alternative treatments. It encourages clinicians to stay abreast of the field and routinely ask families about what they are using.
Pediatrics: 2008; 122:1374-1386.