Motor imagery technique for motor recovery of hand among sub-acute stroke patient: A randomized controlled trial

Stroke is the second leading cause of death globally, with a rising prevalence in line with increasing life expectancy. Hemiparesis, affecting up to 85% of stroke survivors, leads to impaired arm and hand movement, reduced strength, and limited coordination, significantly affecting daily activities. Despite rehabilitation efforts, many stroke survivors face persistent functional limitations or permanent disabilities. Intensive rehabilitation is often costly and constrained by the limited number of therapy sessions available in many centers. Therefore, strategies to enhance functional recovery while minimizing resource use are crucial. One promising approach is motor imagery (MI), a cognitive rehearsal of physical actions aimed at improving motor function. MI has been shown to activate similar brain areas as actual movement, such as the premotor cortex and supplementary motor area. While evidence supports MI's potential for enhancing motor recovery, clinical guidelines remain insufficient. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of motor imagery for improving hand function in subacute stroke patients. The primary objective is to assess the impact of MI on motor recovery using the Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory over a 4-week period.