The Effect of Motor Imagery Ability on Function and Proprioception in Myoelectric Prosthesis Users: Protocol for a Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND

Motor imagery ability (MIA) is a critical cognitive process that enables the mental simulation of movements, facilitating skill acquisition in the use of myoelectric prostheses and their effective control in individuals who have undergone amputation. Although MIA is essential, its impact on upper extremity function and proprioception in myoelectric prosthesis users remains insufficiently studied.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate MIA in individuals who have undergone transradial amputation and use myoelectric prostheses, compare it with a healthy control group, and examine its association with upper extremity functionality and proprioception.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study will include 15 individuals who have undergone transradial amputation (aged 18-65 y) and 15 age- and sex-matched healthy controls, recruited from prosthetics and orthotics centers in Istanbul, Turkey. Assessments will include MIA, hand mental rotation, upper extremity function, and proprioception. MIA will be measured using the Movement Imagery Questionnaire-3 and the Mental Chronometry Test. Hand mental rotation ability will be assessed via the Orientate mobile app. Upper extremity function will be evaluated using the Box and Block Test; Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test; and the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire. Proprioception will be assessed through joint position sense measurements. All data will undergo appropriate statistical analyses.

RESULTS

Data collection began following funding from the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey on April 25, 2025. As of November 2025, 8 participants with transradial amputation and 8 healthy controls have been recruited. Assessments are ongoing, and study completion is expected by June 2026.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will evaluate MIA in individuals who have undergone transradial amputation and use myoelectric prostheses and explore its relationship with upper extremity function and proprioception. The findings are expected to guide the development of targeted rehabilitation strategies, particularly those incorporating motor imagery-based training for this population.

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