Estimation Error Consisting of Motor Imagery and Motor Execution in Patients with Stroke

Abstract

Previous studies demonstrate that the difference between motor imagery and actual tasks (estimation error) is related to cognitive and physical functions and that a large estimation error (LE) is related to motor imagery ability, including cognitive and physical functions in healthy subjects. The purpose of this study investigated whether estimation error is related to physical and cognitive function in patients with stroke. The study included 60 patients with stroke. The Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) was employed to assess estimation error. First, the imagined TUGT (iTUGT) was performed; thereafter, the actual TUGT was performed. The estimation error was calculated by subtracting TUGT from iTUGT, with conversion to the absolute value. The patients were classified into the small estimation error (SE) and LE groups, with comparisons of various clinical scores (Mini-Mental State Examination, Berg Balance Scale, 10-m walking speed, Brunnstrom Recovery Stage, and Functional Independence Measure). As a result, the estimation error was significantly larger in the LE group than in the SE group. Cognitive function and balance ability were significantly lower in the LE group than in the SE group. In conclusion, the estimation error was related to physical and cognitive functions in patients with stroke.

Keywords:

• motor imagery
• estimation error
• stroke patients
• Timed Up and Go Test

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors would like to thank Ukai rehabilitation hospital staff and Reiwa rehabilitation hospital staff for their help with the study.

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

The authors report no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.