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Action observation training to improve motor function recovery: a systematic review
Elisabetta Sarasso1,2, Mariano Gemma1, Federica Agosta2
1Rehabilitation Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
Archives of Physiotherapy
|January 18, 2018
Summary
Action Observation Training (AOT) shows promise for improving motor function recovery in neurological and orthopedic conditions. While effective in stroke, Parkinson's, cerebral palsy, and post-surgery patients, its application varies, limiting clinical practice conclusions.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Neuroscience
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- The Mirror Neuron System (MNS) underpins Action Observation Training (AOT), a rehabilitation technique.
- AOT is increasingly used for motor function improvement in neurological and orthopedic conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of experimental research on Action Observation Training (AOT) for motor function recovery.
- To synthesize evidence on AOT efficacy across diverse diseases and patient populations.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) published up to July 2015.
- Searches conducted across PubMed, PEDro, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central Register.
- Risk of bias assessment using the Cochrane Collaboration tool.
Main Results:
- Twenty RCTs were included, evaluating AOT in stroke, Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, and orthopedic surgery.
- Evidence suggests AOT improves upper limb function and walking in stroke patients.
- AOT shows potential benefits for Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, and post-orthopedic surgery recovery.
Conclusions:
- Action Observation Training (AOT), alongside conventional physiotherapy, appears effective for motor recovery in various neurological and orthopedic conditions.
- Significant heterogeneity in AOT application (diseases, outcome measures) currently hinders definitive clinical practice guidelines.
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