Abstract
AbstractMotor simulation interventions involving motor imagery (MI) and action observation (AO) have received considerable interest in the behavioral sciences. A growing body of research has focused on using AO and MI simultaneously, termed ‘combined action observation and motor imagery’ (AOMI). The current paper includes two meta-analyses that quantify changes in corticospinal excitability and motor skill performance for AOMI compared to AO, MI and control conditions. Specifically, the first meta-analysis collated and synthesized existing motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitude data from transcranial magnetic stimulation studies and the second meta-analysis collated and synthesized existing movement outcome data from behavioral studies. AOMI had a positive effect compared to control and AO but not MI conditions for both MEP amplitudes and movement outcomes. No methodological factors moderated the effects of AOMI, indicating a robust effect of AOMI across the two outcome variables. The results of the meta-analyses are discussed in relation to existing literature on motor simulation and skill acquisition, before providing viable directions for future research on this topic.HighlightsMotor imagery (MI) and action observation (AO) can be combined (AOMI)This paper synthesizes neurophysiological and behavioral evidence for AOMIAOMI had increased corticospinal excitability compared to AO and control but not MIAOMI led to improved movement outcomes compared to AO and control but not MIThe reported effects of AOMI were maintained across all moderators
Publisher
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory