Visual Illusions that Trick the Brain May Boost Motor Skills and Rehab Potential
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Researchers found visual aids creating illusions of movement (visual-motor illusions or VMI) can enhance motor performance and early-stage motor learning compared to just observing movement.
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A study showed VMI improved performance on a hand rolling task both immediately and 1 hour after watching a video, indicating enhanced motor learning.
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Functional near-infrared spectroscopy revealed VMI leads to greater, lasting changes in brain activity in regions related to motor learning compared to action observation.
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The findings could have implications for developing new rehab treatments for hemiplegic stroke patients.
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More research is still needed assessing VMI's effects on mid to long-term motor performance and in patient populations.