The relation between cognitive and motor dysfunction and motor imagery ability in patients with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Background: Motor imagery (MI) was recently shown to be a promising tool in neurorehabilitation. The ability to perform motor imagery, however, may be impaired in part of the patients with neurological dysfunction. Objective: To assess the relation between cognitive and motor dysfunction and MI ability in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods: 30 patients with MS underwent a cognitive and motor screening, as well as performed a composite test battery to assess their MI ability. This test battery consisted of a questionnaire, a hand rotation task and a test based on mental chronometry. Patients’ MI ability was compared with the MI ability of age-matched healthy controls. As well, their MI scores were compared between body sides and were correlated with their scores on tests of motor and cognitive functioning. Results: The average accuracy and temporal organisation of MI significantly differed between MS patients and controls. Patients’ MI accuracy significantly correlated with impairments in cognitive functioning, but was independent of motor functioning. MI duration, on the other hand, was independent of cognitive performance, but differed between patients’ most and least affected side. Conclusion: These findings are of use when considering the application of motor imagery practice in MS patients’ rehabilitation.