Embodied learning in multiple sclerosis using melodic, sound, and visual feedback: a potential rehabilitation...

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Motor Control

Background:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) significantly impacts motor and cognitive functions.
• Current rehabilitation strategies may not fully integrate these dual deficits.
• Embodiment theory offers a novel framework for unified functional training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of an embodied learning protocol for persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).
• To assess the impact of different feedback modalities (melody, sound, visual) on cognitive and motor performance.
• To explore the relationship between balance, information processing speed, and learning in PwMS.

Main Methods:

• An embodied learning protocol involving a cognitive sequence and stepping movement was administered to PwMS and healthy controls.
• Three feedback conditions were used: melody, sound, and visual.
• Cognitive recall and movement execution speed were assessed post-protocol.

Main Results:

• Half of all participants recalled the sequence across all feedback conditions.
• Healthy controls showed higher recall rates (70%) with melody feedback.
• Balance impairment correlated with slower sequence execution, while information processing speed predicted execution speed in melody and sound conditions.

Conclusions:

• Embodied learning, especially with melody feedback, can enhance cognitive and motor function in PwMS.
• Embodiment provides a viable rehabilitation strategy for addressing integrated motor and cognitive impairments in MS.
• Future research should explore optimizing embodied learning protocols for PwMS rehabilitation.