Efficacy of motor imagery (mirror visual feedback) in complex regional pain syndrome: A study

Abstract

Introduction: Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic painful and disabling condition, often triggered by a minor injury. It is characterized by sensory disturbances, vasomotor and sudomotor dysfunction, motor abnormalities and maladaptive neuroplasticity. An integrated multimodal multidisciplinary treatment approach is recommended. Other than pharmacological and interventional management the use of visual illusion created by mirror has also been reported. It is a neuro-rehabilitation technique designed to re-modulate cortical mechanism of pain. Aim: To assess the effectiveness of mirror visual feedback (MVF) and establish it as a therapeutic measure in CRPS. Materials and Method: Ten patients of CRPS had been treated with Motor Imagery through MVF method for 2 weeks, where reflection of unaffected side seems to visually superimpose on the felt location of the affected one. The pre-post data of this study were collected prior and at the end of 2 weeks of treatment. Data Analysis: Done using a paired "t" test. Results: Results shows significant improvement (P < 0.05) in resting and movement pain and swelling. Conclusion: The study can be considered as an important document for establishing MVF as a treatment of choice for the patients with CRPS.

Keywords

• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• mirror visual feedback (MVF)
• motor imagery. Key Message: Motor imagery through mirror visual feedback method is effective in reducing pain and swelling in chronic regional pain syndrome.