Training based on mirror visual feedback influences transcallosal communication

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Motor Control

Background:

• Mirror visual feedback (MVF) therapy is a promising neurorehabilitation tool.
• MVF therapy is thought to induce neuroplasticity in the primary motor cortex (M1).
• The impact of MVF on the hemispheric balance between M1s and interhemispheric inhibition (IHI) remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of motor training and MVF training on M1 excitability.
• To assess the influence of these training methods on IHI between the two M1s.
• To evaluate the potential of MVF therapy in conditions with abnormal IHI, such as stroke.

Main Methods:

• Healthy subjects participated in motor training and MVF training protocols.
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was used to measure M1 excitability.
• IHI between the left and right M1s was assessed before and after training sessions.

Main Results:

• Both motor training and MVF training increased IHI from the 'active' M1 to the opposite M1.
• Only motor training led to a significant increase in the excitability of the active M1.
• MVF training demonstrated an influence on the excitability of the transcallosal pathway.

Conclusions:

• MVF training modulates IHI, suggesting its potential utility in neurorehabilitation.
• The findings support the use of MVF therapy for conditions characterized by abnormal IHI, like stroke.
• MVF therapy may help rebalance motor cortex activity in neurological disorders.