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Effectiveness of Motor Imagery on Motor Recovery in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: Systematic Review
Ana Gil-Bermejo-Bernardez-Zerpa1, Jose A Moral-Munoz1,2, David Lucena-Anton1
1Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cadiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain.
Abstract:
The effects of motor imagery (MI) on functional recovery of patients with neurological pathologies, such as stroke, has been recently proven. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of MI on motor recovery and quality of life (QOL) in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). A search was carried out in the following scientific databases: PubMed, CINAHL, PEDro, Scopus, Cochrane and Web of Science, up to November 2020. The grey literature and reference lists of potentially relevant articles were also searched. The Checklist for Measuring Quality and The Cochrane collaboration's tool were used to assess the methodological quality and risk of bias of the studies. Five studies were included in the systematic review. Findings showed that pwMS using MI had significant improvements in walking speed and distance, fatigue and QOL. In addition, several benefits were also found in dynamic balance and perceived walking ability. Although the evidence is limited, rehabilitation using MI with the application of musical and verbal guides (compared to non-intervention or other interventions), can produce benefits on gait, fatigue and QOL in pwMS with a low score in the Expanded Disability Status Scale.
Insights
Motor imagery (MI) improves walking, fatigue, and quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients. This rehabilitation technique, especially with guides, shows benefits for motor recovery and daily function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Clinical Neurology
Background:
- Motor imagery (MI) is a proven technique for functional recovery in neurological conditions.
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurological disease affecting motor function and quality of life (QOL).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of MI on motor recovery and QOL in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS).
Main Methods:
- A systematic review was conducted using multiple scientific databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PEDro, Scopus, Cochrane, Web of Science) up to November 2020.
- Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using established tools.
- Five studies were included in the final analysis.
Main Results:
- Patients with MS using MI showed significant improvements in walking speed, distance, fatigue, and QOL.
- Benefits were also observed in dynamic balance and perceived walking ability.
- MI, particularly with musical and verbal guides, demonstrated positive effects on gait, fatigue, and QOL in pwMS with lower disability scores.
Conclusions:
- Motor imagery, especially when combined with auditory and verbal cues, can be a beneficial rehabilitation strategy for pwMS.
- Evidence suggests MI can enhance motor recovery, improve gait, reduce fatigue, and increase QOL in this population.
- Further research is needed due to the limited evidence base, but MI shows promise for improving functional outcomes in multiple sclerosis.
