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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
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Motor Imagery Brain-Computer Interface in Rehabilitation of Upper Limb Motor Dysfunction After Stroke
Published on: September 1, 2023
Effects of Brain-Computer Interface-Based Training on Post-Stroke Lower Limb Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review and
Xingyu Liu1, Peng Huang1, Linjie Wu1
1School of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Sport University, No. 48 Xinxi Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100080, China.
Summary
Brain-computer interface (BCI) training enhances lower-limb motor function after stroke. Optimal BCI rehabilitation may involve moderate total training doses and shorter session durations for improved recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Stroke frequently causes lower-limb motor dysfunction, impacting mobility and quality of life.
- Brain-computer interface (BCI) technology offers a novel rehabilitation strategy by promoting neuroplasticity through a closed-loop system.
- Optimal parameters for BCI training dosage remain undetermined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of BCI training on motor function, balance, walking ability, and daily living activities post-stroke.
- To investigate how total training dose, session length, and stroke phase influence BCI efficacy.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) up to April 2026.
- Methodological quality was evaluated using the PEDro scale.
- A meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 to determine mean differences and confidence intervals.
Main Results:
- Ten RCTs with 366 participants were analyzed.
- BCI training demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in lower-limb motor function (Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Lower Extremity: MD = 2.38, P < 0.00001).
- While below the minimal clinically important difference for chronic stroke, the improvement suggests clinical relevance, especially for subacute patients.
Conclusions:
- BCI-based training is effective for improving lower-limb motor recovery following stroke.
- Subgroup analyses indicate that a moderate total training dose (401-800 minutes) and session durations of 20-40 minutes may be optimal.
- Further research with larger trials is needed to confirm these optimal dosing parameters.
