Motor imagery as an intervention to improve activities of daily living post-stroke: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

Introduction: Motor imagery (MI) may be an effective tool for improving activities of daily living (ADL) post-stroke. However, no review to date has examined ADL independence when investigating training effectiveness. This review aimed to evaluate the quality of evidence and the effectiveness of MI training for improving ADL independence post-stroke. Method: Randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies comparing MI to conventional therapies were reviewed. Methodological quality was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Results: Thirteen articles met inclusion criteria. The overall quality was considered moderate to good, with a PEDro score ranging from 3 to 8. Most studies (9 out of 13) were considered good quality, with one rating of poor quality and three of fair quality. The primary findings suggest that MI training is a low-risk tool that may facilitate ADL independence. Audio-based MI training seems to improve ADL independence when paired with other rehabilitation methods, but the results should be interpreted with caution. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review to examine RCTs investigating MI effectiveness in improving ADL post-stroke. Results support the use of MI to facilitate ADL independence. However, more research is needed to establish practice guidelines for implementing MI training post-stroke.