Effectiveness of Mirror Therapy vs. Mental Imagery Training in Enhancing Motor Recovery in Stroke Patients: A Comparative Study
Raziya Mehar S 1, Sathya Siva Kannan 2, Rithika Shree J 3, Sameena S 4, Jilna James 5, Bharathi Krishnan S6
1,3,4,5 Under Graduate Student, Saveetha College of Physiotherapy, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India-602105
2 Professor, Saveetha College of Physiotherapy, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
CORRESPONDING AUTHOR:
Raziya Mehar S
Under Graduate Student,
Saveetha College of Physiotherapy,
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science,
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India-602105,
Email- raziyamehars67@gmail.com
ABSTRACT:
Purpose: Stroke is a leading cause of disability, significantly affecting motor function and overall quality of life. Effective rehabilitation strategies are essential for enhancing motor recovery. Mirror Therapy (MT) and Mental Imagery Training (MIT) are two promising neurorehabilitation approaches. This study aims to compare their effectiveness in enhancing motor recovery in stroke patients.
Methods: A comparative study was conducted involving 30 stroke patients with moderate to severe motor impairments. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A (n = 15) received Mirror Therapy, and Group B (n = 15) underwent Mental Imagery Training. Both interventions were administered for 30 minutes per session, five days a week, over eight weeks. Motor function outcomes were assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) and the Barthel Index before and after the intervention.
Results: Both MT and MIT groups showed significant improvements in motor function (p < 0.05). However, Mirror Therapy demonstrated slightly greater gains in voluntary motor control and coordination. Mental Imagery Training also showed remarkable improvements, particularly in cognitive-motor planning tasks.
Conclusion: Mirror Therapy and Mental Imagery Training are effective interventions for enhancing motor recovery in stroke patients. Mirror Therapy appears to provide superior improvements in motor coordination, while Mental Imagery Training may be more beneficial for enhancing cognitive-motor planning. Further research is recommended to explore the combined effects of these therapies.
KEY WORDS: Mirror Therapy, Mental Imagery Training, Stroke Rehabilitation, Motor Recovery, Neuroplasticity.
