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Multinetwork Motor Learning as a Model for Dance in Neurorehabilitation
1York University, Toronto, ON, Canada. rebecca.barnstaple@gmail.com.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|January 1, 2022
Summary
This review explores how diverse dance elements can enhance rehabilitation for neurodegenerative conditions. Dance fosters adaptive plasticity through motor learning, spatial navigation, and entrainment, offering neuroprotective benefits.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Geriatrics
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Dance applications are expanding in geriatrics for rehabilitation and pre-habilitation.
- Specific dance elements contributing to improvements require examination.
- Dance interventions often lack detailed descriptions of involved elements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review central dance elements potentially contributing to rehabilitation.
- To suggest hypotheses for future research and training.
- To examine how dance elements foster adaptive plasticity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of dance elements and their potential impact on rehabilitation.
- Focus on key topics: motor learning, motor control, spatial navigation, action observation, and entrainment.
- Exploration of future considerations: imagery, imagination, multisensory integration, mental rehearsal, volitional movement, and creativity.
Main Results:
- Dance elements may promote adaptive plasticity.
- Specific components like motor learning and spatial navigation are highlighted.
- Potential neuroprotective mechanisms are identified.
Conclusions:
- Dance offers a multifaceted approach to neurorehabilitation.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms of dance-based interventions.
- Dance's unique combination of elements may provide a neuroprotective 'toolbox'.
