Short Communication - Journal of Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Research (2025) Volume 10, Issue 2
Mirror Therapy in Upper Limb Rehabilitation After Stroke
Hanna Lindgren*Department of Neuroplasticity Research, Stockholm University Hospital, Sweden.
- *Corresponding Author:
- Hanna Lindgren
Department of Neuroplasticity Research
Stockholm University Hospital, Sweden.
E-mail: hanna.lindgren@suh.se
Received: 03-Apr-2025, Manuscript No. JNNR-25-169114; Editor assigned: 04-Apr-2025, PreQC No. JNNR-25-1691145(PQ); Reviewed: 18-Apr-2025, QC No JNNR-25-1691145; Revised: 21-Apr-2025, Manuscript No. JNNR-25-1691145(R); Published: 28-Apr-2025, DOI:10.35841/aajnnr-10.2.258
Citation: Lindgren H. Mirror therapy in upper limb rehabilitation after stroke. J Neurol Neurorehab Res. 2025;10(2):258.
Introduction
Mirror therapy has become an increasingly recognized intervention in upper limb rehabilitation after stroke, offering a simple yet effective way to promote motor recovery. This approach involves placing a mirror in the patient’s midsagittal plane so that the reflection of the unaffected limb gives the illusion that the affected limb is moving normally. By repeatedly observing the mirrored movement, the brain receives visual feedback that can stimulate motor pathways and promote neuroplasticity. This visual trickery helps engage sensorimotor networks in the brain, encouraging the relearning of motor skills. Since mirror therapy can be administered with minimal equipment and even at home, it is a cost-effective and accessible method for enhancing conventional rehabilitation programs for stroke survivors [1].
The underlying principle of mirror therapy is based on the concept that visual input can strongly influence motor perception and execution. When a patient moves the unaffected arm and sees its reflection, the brain interprets it as movement of the affected arm, thereby activating motor areas that might otherwise remain underutilized. This repeated activation is thought to help re-establish connections between the brain and the impaired limb. Research suggests that this approach may be particularly beneficial for patients with moderate impairments, as it offers a safe and non-fatiguing way to engage the affected limb without requiring actual movement, which may be difficult early in the recovery process. The ability to stimulate neural circuits through visual feedback provides a powerful tool for motor relearning [2].
Clinical studies have shown that mirror therapy can lead to significant improvements in upper limb motor function, muscle strength, and coordination. These benefits are often enhanced when mirror therapy is combined with conventional physical and occupational therapy. For example, incorporating mirror therapy into daily rehabilitation routines can improve performance in activities of daily living such as eating, dressing, and writing. Furthermore, mirror therapy has been associated with reduced neglect symptoms in patients with hemispatial neglect, a common post-stroke condition in which individuals fail to attend to one side of their body or environment. By encouraging patients to focus visually on symmetrical movements, mirror therapy may help restore attention and awareness to the affected side [3].
An important advantage of mirror therapy is its adaptability to different settings and levels of impairment. It can be performed in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or at home, and requires only a mirror and guided instructions from a therapist. This makes it particularly valuable for patients who have limited access to intensive rehabilitation services. Additionally, the therapy can be tailored to suit the patient’s needs by adjusting the complexity of the tasks, such as starting with simple hand opening and closing movements and progressing to more functional activities. The simplicity of the setup also means that caregivers can be trained to facilitate sessions, further supporting ongoing rehabilitation outside of formal therapy sessions [4].
Despite its advantages, mirror therapy is not without limitations. Some patients may find it difficult to focus on the mirror image or may not fully engage with the illusion, reducing the potential benefits. Cognitive impairments, visual deficits, or severe neglect can also limit the effectiveness of the therapy. Moreover, while many studies support its use, there is variability in the reported outcomes, and optimal protocols regarding session length, frequency, and duration remain to be established. Further research is needed to determine the most effective ways to integrate mirror therapy into broader stroke rehabilitation programs and to identify which patients are most likely to benefit. Understanding these factors will be essential for maximizing the therapy’s potential in clinical practice [5].
Conclusion
Mirror therapy offers a low-cost, accessible, and innovative approach to upper limb rehabilitation after stroke, harnessing the power of visual feedback to promote neuroplasticity and motor recovery. By creating the illusion of normal movement, it can stimulate neural pathways, improve function, and complement conventional rehabilitation techniques. While challenges remain in optimizing treatment protocols and tailoring interventions to individual needs, the growing body of evidence supports its value as part of a comprehensive stroke rehabilitation strategy. With continued research and clinical refinement, mirror therapy has the potential to further enhance recovery outcomes and improve quality of life for stroke survivors.
References
- Howard Jr JF, Bril V, Burns TM, et al. Randomized phase 2 study of FcRn antagonist efgartigimod in generalized myasthenia gravis. Neurology. 2019;92(23):e2661-73.
- Latronico N, Rasulo FA, Eikermann M, et al. Critical illness weakness, polyneuropathy and myopathy: diagnosis, treatment, and long-term outcomes. Crit Care. 2023;27(1):439.
- Limerick G, Christo DK, Tram J, et al. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Evidence-Based Advances in Concepts and Treatments. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2023;27(9):269-98.
- Matsumura T, Saito T, Mori M, et al. Infection control in the respiratory care of coronavirus disease?19 patients with neuromuscular diseases. Neurol Clin Neurosci. 2021;9(2):159-65.
- Vakrakou AG, Karachaliou E, Chroni E, et al. Immunotherapies in MuSK-positive Myasthenia Gravis; an IgG4 antibody-mediated disease. Front Immunol. 2023;14:1212757.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref