The Role of Movement Representation Techniques in the Motor Learning Process: A Neurophysiological Hypothesis and a Narrative Review

Abstract

We present a neurophysiological hypothesis for the role of motor imagery (MI) and action observation (AO) training in the motor learning process. The effects of movement representation in the brain and those of the cortical–subcortical networks related to planning, executing, adjusting, and automating real movements share a similar neurophysiological activity. Coupled with the influence of certain variables related to the movement representation process, this neurophysiological activity is a key component of the present hypothesis. These variables can be classified into four domains: physical, cognitive–evaluative, motivational–emotional, and direct-modulation. The neurophysiological activity underlying the creation and consolidation of mnemonic representations of motor gestures as a prerequisite to motor learning might differ between AO and MI. Together with variations in cognitive loads, these differences might explain the differing results in motor learning. The mirror neuron system appears to function more efficiently through AO training than MI, and AO is less demanding in terms of cognitive load than MI. AO might be less susceptible to the influence of variables related to movement representation.

Effects of Virtual Reality versus Exercise on Pain, Functional, Somatosensory and Psychosocial Outcomes in Patients with Non-specific Chronic Neck Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial

“…In 2020, Martínez et al concluded on a narrative review that the participants' physical condition and cognitive and emotional characteristics should be considered before implementing interventions that employ movement representation techniques. They also found that the observation of actions is less demanding in terms of cognitive load, leading to a more robust and less susceptible intervention to influence variables related to brain representation [73].…”

Observing errors in a combination of error and correct models favors observational motor learning

“…However, motor learning is considered to produce relatively permanent changes in the capability for skilled behavior. The motor learning effect could be inferred from the performance, but it is not identical to the latter since it could easily have been affected by many other factors [28][29][30], such as, temporary facilitation or inhibition effects from the visual or auditory information, fatigue, and so on. As the setting of post-test was the same as between the two conditions and without any feedback or task-related visual information, we believe that the result of the post-test could more accurately reflect the learning effect.…”

Effects of movement representation techniques on motor learning of thumb-opposition tasks

“…The thumb is frequently used in daily life activities and leading to a learning process in this body region could have a significant impact on people's lives. Clinically, improved neuro-sensorimotor control, leading to a process of motor relearning after prolonged disuse and improving certain peripheral physical variables, such as strength and active range of motion, could be key aspects for reducing disability and increasing functionality 21 , 22 . Another key aspect that we think will be able to influence the motor learning process through movement representation techniques is the ability to imagine movements.…”

“…Another key aspect that we think will be able to influence the motor learning process through movement representation techniques is the ability to imagine movements. It has been argued that the ability to imagine is an important factor when performing mental practice 22 . For example, Martin et al 23 have suggested that an individual’s ability to imagine movements can determine the effectiveness of its use.…”