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Visual feedback-related changes in ipsilateral cortical excitability during unimanual movement: Implications for mirror therapy
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 01:22 authored by Reissig, P, Michael GarryMichael Garry, Jeffery SummersJeffery Summers, Mark HinderMark HinderProvision of a mirror image of a hand undertaking a motor task (i.e., mirror therapy) elicits behavioural improvements in the inactive hand. A greater understanding of the neural mechanisms underpinning this phenomenon is required to maximise its potential for rehabilitation across the lifespan, e.g., following hemiparesis or unilateral weakness. Young and older participants performed unilateral finger abductions with no visual feedback, with feedback of the active or passive hands, or with a mirror image of the active hand. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to assess feedback-related changes in two neurophysiological measures thought to be involved in inter-manual transfer of skill, namely corticospinal excitability (CSE) and intracortical inhibition (SICI) in the passive hemisphere. Task performance led to CSE increases, accompanied by decreases of SICI, in all visual feedback conditions relative to rest. However, the changes due to mirror feedback were not significantly different to those observed in the other (more standard) visual conditions. Accordingly, the unimanual motor action itself, rather than modifications in visual feedback, appears more instrumental in driving changes in CSE and SICI. Therefore, changes in CSE and SICI are unlikely to underpin the behavioural benefits of mirror therapy. We discuss implications for rehabilitation and directions of future research.
Funding
Australian Research Council
History
Publication title
Neuropsychological RehabilitationVolume
24Issue
6Pagination
936-957ISSN
1464-0694Department/School
School of Psychological SciencesPublisher
RoutledgePlace of publication
United KingdomRights statement
Copyright 2014 Taylor & FrancisRepository Status
- Restricted