This Article Full Text (PDF) References Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Citation Map Services Email this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Similar articles in ISI Web of Science Similar articles in PubMed Alert me to new issues of the journal Add to Saved Citations Download to citation manager Request Permissions Request Reprints Add to My Marked Citations Google Scholar Articles by Braun, S. Articles by Wade, D. PubMed PubMed Citation Articles by Braun, S. Articles by Wade, D. Social Bookmarking                   What's this?

Using mental practice in stroke rehabilitation: a framework

Department of Health and Technique, Zuyd University, s.braun{at}hszuyd.nl

Melanie Kleynen

Department of Health and Technique, Zuyd University

Jos Schols

Department of General Practice, Maastricht University

Thomas Schack

Department of Psychology and Science, University Bielefeld, Bielefeld

Anna Beurskens

Department of Health and Technique, Zuyd University, Heerlen, The Netherlands

Derick Wade

Department of Rehabilitation, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands

Introduction: Motor imagery and mental practice are getting increased attention in neurological rehabilitation. Several different mental practice intervention protocols have been used in studies on its effect on recovery in stroke rehabilitation. The content of the intervention protocols itself is rarely discussed or questioned.

Objective: To give a practical framework of how mental practice could be integrated into therapy, drawing on available evidence and theory. The aim of the treatment programme described is to enhance both the patient's physical performance and their empowerment and self-determination.

The framework: Based on evidence from sports rehabilitation and our own experiences the framework will eventually be evaluated in a randomized controlled trial. Five steps are described to teach and upgrade the patient's imagery technique: (1) assess mental capacity to learn imagery technique; (2) establish the nature of mental practice; (3) teach imagery technique; (4) embed and monitor imagery technique; (5) develop self-generated treatments. The description is not, however, a recipe that should be followed precisely. It leaves enough room to tailor the mental practice intervention to the specific individual possibilities, skills and needs of the patient in accordance with evidence-based practice.

Discussion: Different aspects of the described protocol are discussed and compared with experiences from sports and evidence available in rehabilitation.

CiteULike    Connotea    Del.icio.us    Digg    Reddit    Technorati    What's this?