Harnessing Mirror Neurons: A New Frontier in Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation—A Scoping Review of the Literature

Author:

Tedeschi Roberto1ORCID,Platano Daniela12,Donati Danilo34ORCID,Giorgi Federica5

Affiliation:

1. Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40125 Bologna, Italy

2. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy

3. Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy

4. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy

5. IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences, UOC Child Rehabilitation Medicine, 40138 Bologna, Italy

Abstract

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. Rehabilitation utilizing mirror neurons leverages the brain’s capacity for action observation (AO) and motor imagery (MI) to enhance motor function. This approach involves patients imitating movements observed in therapists or videos, aiming to improve gait, coordination, and overall quality of life. Mirror neuron activation facilitates motor learning and may decelerate disease progression, thus enhancing patient mobility and independence. Methods: This scoping review aimed to map current evidence on PD therapies employing mirror neuron-based rehabilitation. Databases searched included PubMed, PEDro, and Cochrane. The review included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews that examined the effects of AO and MI in PD rehabilitation. Results: Five studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing various rehabilitation techniques focusing on AO and MI. These studies consistently demonstrated positive outcomes, such as reduced disease severity and improved quality of life, gait, and balance in PD patients. The activation of mirror neurons through AO and MI was shown to facilitate motor learning and contribute to improved functional mobility. Conclusions: Although the included studies support the beneficial impact of AO and MI techniques in PD rehabilitation, numerous questions remain unresolved. Further research is necessary to evaluate the potential integration of these techniques into standard physiotherapy routines for PD patients. This review highlights the promise of AO and MI in enhancing motor rehabilitation for PD, suggesting the need for more comprehensive studies to validate and refine these therapeutic approaches.

Publisher

MDPI AG

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