Effects of mirror visual feedback therapy on upper limb function and brain activity among stroke survivors: a single-subject study

Upper limb disability is common among patient with stroke. Mirror Visual Feedback (MVF) is a visual stimulation therapy that is a promising approach to improve upper limb function. The mirror therapy process is designed to trick the brain into experiencing movements in the paralyzed limb. There are two types of MVF which is unilateral (moving only one side) and bilateral (moving both limbs). However, the mechanism of this therapy remains unclear. Changes in cortical activity and improving upper limb function after MVF require further exploration. The aims of this study were to explore the changes of upper limb function and brain activities after six weeks of MVF, to compare between two MVF protocols (unilateral and bilateral) and to see is there any relationship between upper limb function and brain activities in chronic stroke. Single subject design known as withdrawal design was used by using a purposive sample of ten subjects. Ten participants were recruited from rehabilitation department were recommended by the medical doctors. They were assigned either to one of the two groups (unilateral or bilateral group).