Motor imagery in evidence-based physical therapy

Abstract

Motor imagery allows patients with difficulty in voluntary movements to mentally practice a target motor task. Numerous neurophysiological studies have investigated the mechanisms underlying the benefits of motor imagery, but many aspects remain unclear. Since both central and spinal neural function need to be leveraged to improve various motor functions, we have investigated motor imagery and spinal neural functions. Our previous research demonstrated a facilitation effect of motor imagery on spinal neural function and an immediate effect on muscle strength. Specifically, a mild imagined muscle contraction strength may be sufficient to enhance the excitability of spinal motor neurons. In addition, kinesthetic imagery or combined action observation and motor imagery may substantially enhance the excitability of spinal motor neurons. Also, keeping a position of the upper or lower extremities close to the desired movements leads to greater enhancement of the excitability of spinal motor neurons during motor imagery.