Commentary on “Effectiveness of motor imagery and action observation training on musculoskeletal pain intensity: A systematic review and meta-analysis” by Suso-Marti et al

Abstract

This journal recently published a paper by Suso-Marti et al., entitled “Effectiveness of motor imagery and action observation training on musculoskeletal pain intensity: A systematic review and meta-analysis” (2020). Motor imagery training and action observation training are rehabilitation approaches that involve imagining oneself executing a particular action, and watching actions that are performed by others, respectively. Both are thought to activate similar neural substrates that are responsible for the actual execution of an action (Eaves et al., 2016). Motor imagery and action observation have been used to enhance motor skill performance in several groups – including athletes and musicians who require highly accurate and precise movement for professional performances, and a similar approach has been employed during rehabilitation with variable outcomes in people after stroke, spinal cord injury and persistent pain.