Role of the mental imagery on upper extremity functional recovery in patients with stroke

Background: Mental Imagery referes to the cognitive process through which
the mental reresentation of an action is activated. It represents “motor
activation without execution”. Objective: To determine the effect of mental imagery on UE function in stroke patients based on reviewing evidences. Method: Systematic review of the previous studies were conducted and electronic databases were searched by using MEDLINE, Pubmed, PEDRro scale, CINAHL for the years 2000 to 2017, studies were rated for level of Evidence, scored according to PEDro and summarized study elements. Results: Studies differed with respect to design, patient characteristics, intervention protocols, and outcome measures. The length of the interventions and number of practice hours varied. Results suggest that mental imagery combined with physical practice improves UE recovery. Conclusion: The mental imagery has positive effect on the upper extremity function in stroke patients. Although general guidelines for the clinical use of mental imagery is difficult to make, Future research should explore the dosage, factors affecting the use of mental imagery and most effective mode of delivery.