[Motor learning while performing a motor task measured by magnetic resonance imaging: a systematic review]

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Motor Control
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Motor learning involves neurophysiological changes influenced by factors like repetition and cognitive load.
• Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a key tool for measuring these learning-induced brain alterations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review fMRI studies documenting motor learning in healthy subjects performing various motor tasks.
• To synthesize evidence on factors influencing motor learning as measured by fMRI.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (MEDLINE, PEDro, CINHAL, EBSCO) in May 2020.
• The review adhered to PRISMA guidelines, selecting nine studies for qualitative analysis.
• Study quality was assessed using the PEDro scale, with scores ranging from 5 to 7.

Main Results:

• Strong evidence indicates that motor task repetition generates a motor learning process.
• Significant evidence supports the involvement of action observation and sleep restriction in motor learning.
• Findings regarding sensory discrimination training's impact on motor learning were inconclusive.

Conclusions:

• High-quality evidence links motor task repetition to the motor learning process.
• Motor learning may be associated with motor cortex thickening, as observed via fMRI.
• Limitations inherent to this systematic review necessitate cautious interpretation of findings.