Exploring motor imagery as a therapeutic intervention for Parkinson's disease patients: a scoping review.

BackgroundMotor imagery (MI) has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for Parkinson's disease (PD). MI entails mentally rehearsing motor actions without executing them. This cognitive process has garnered attention due to its potential benefits in aiding motor function recovery in patients. The purpose of this review was to highlight the findings observed in motor symptoms, balance, gait, and quality of life.MethodsA literature search was carried out in Medline, Embase, Cochrane, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), from the first publication to February 2024. Studies with at least one keyword to PD and MI in the title were included.ResultsThe analysis included 53 studies out of the 262 identified. These comprised 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with an average PEDro score of 6.6 out of 10, as well as 41 non-RCT studies. Notably, the majority of the RCTs focused on balance, gait, and lower limb exercises. The experimental group found an 85.2% improvement on the Timed Up and Go (TUG) with a cognitive task (p p p ConclusionCurrent research on walking disorders in PD shows promise, but further investigations are crucial, particularly with an emphasis on upper limb function and speech. Studies with larger sample sizes and more precise methodologies are needed to enhance our understanding of the potential benefits of MI within the framework of comprehensive PD rehabilitation.