Practical research-based guidance for motor imagery practice in neurorehabilitation.

Abstract

The purpose of this appraisal is to offer guidance to clinicians on applying motor imagery in neurorehabilitation and provide guidance to support this process. We used evidence from a variety of fields as well as clinical experience with motor imagery to develop guidance for employing motor imagery during neurorehabilitation. Motor imagery is a relatively new intervention for neurorehabilitation supported by evidence from areas such as cognitive neuroscience and sports psychology. Motor imagery has become a very popular intervention modality for clinicians but there is insufficient information available on how to administer it in clinical practice and make deliberate decisions during its application. We provide evidence-based guidance for employing motor imagery in neurorehabilitation and use the principles of motor learning as the framework for clinical application.