Project R-15337

Action observation for improvement of upper limb function in multiple sclerosis: from neurophysiological bases to clinical applications (Research)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) often leads to motor impairments like muscle weakness, spasticity, tremors, and fatigue. While therapies to manage these symptoms, such as medication and rehabilitation, are available, most research focuses on lower limb function (e.g., walking), neglecting upper limb rehabilitation. However, upper limb dysfunction can severely impact quality of life, including employment and independence in daily tasks. Current rehabilitation methods for upper limbs in MS lack consensus on optimal treatments, though taskoriented exercises that mimic real-life actions seem promising. Action Observation Treatment (AOT) has emerged as a novel approach. It leverages the brain's mirror neuron system, which activates both during action execution and observation, to enhance motor function even in patients with motor impairments. AOT has been shown to promote brain plasticity, allowing greater improvements through watching others perform tasks. Despite the potential of AOT, optimal treatment dosages for MS patients remain unclear in relation to brain capacity and disability level of patients. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms of AOT and its long-term benefits. My research aims to address these gaps by evaluating current literature, exploring brain activity during AOT, testing a virtual reality-based home intervention, and assessing the effect of varying AOT dosages on motor function improvement.

21 November 2024 - 30 April 2028