Effects of Motor Imagery Training on Gait Ability of Patients with Chronic Stroke

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of motor imagery training on improvement of gait ability of patients with chronic stroke. The motor imagery training was performed using imagination of normal gait movement. [Subjects] Participants were randomly allocated to two groups: a motor imagery training group (n=13) and a control group (n=11). [Methods] Both groups received treadmill training for 3 session 30 minutes per week for 6 weeks. The motor imagery training group practiced additional motor imagery training. Measures were evaluated by gait ability. [Results] The outcomes significantly improved by motor imagery training were gait speed, step length of paretic side, step length of non-paretic side, stride length of paretic side, stride length of non-paretic side, single limb support period of paretic side, and double limb support period of both sides. [Conclusion] The motor imagery training improved gait ability. These results suggest that motor imagery training is feasible and suitable for individuals with stroke.