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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Daniel EavesORCiD
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).
Motor imagery (MI) and action observation (AO) have traditionally been viewed as two separate techniques, which can both be used alongside physical practice to enhance motor learning and rehabilitation. Their independent use has been shown to be effective, and there is clear evidence that the two processes can elicit similar activity in the motor system. Building on these well-established findings, research has now turned to investigate the effects of their combined use. In this article, we first review the available neurophysiological and behavioral evidence for the effects of combined action observation and motor imagery (‘AO+MI’) on motor processes. We next describe a conceptual framework for their combined use, and then discuss several areas for future research into AO+MI processes. In this review, we advocate a more integrated approach to AO+MI techniques than has previously been adopted by movement scientists and practitioners alike. We hope this early review of an emergent body of research, along with a related set of research questions, can inspire new work in this area. We are optimistic that future research will further confirm if, how, and when this combined approach to AO+MI can be more effective in motor learning and rehabilitation settings, relative to the more traditional application of AO or MI independently.
Author(s): Eaves DL, Riach M, Holmes PS, Wright DJ
Publication type: Review
Publication status: Published
Journal: Frontiers in Neuroscience
Year: 2016
Volume: 10
Online publication date: 21/11/2016
Acceptance date: 25/10/2016
ISSN (print): 1662-4548
ISSN (electronic): 1662-453X
URL: https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2016.00514
DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00514
