Effects of Visual Imagery Techniques on Improving Motor Function of Upper Limb in Chronic Ischemic Stroke Patients: A Serial Case Report

Abstract

: The aim of this study is to report our success in improving the motor function of the paresis hand of chronic stroke patients using visual imagery techniques. Three patients with chronic ischemic stroke were given visual imagery therapy carried out twice over three weeks, without stopped the occupational therapy. At the end of the treatment, an increase in hand function was found in all three cases, using the DASH questionnaire. In the first case, there was a significant increase in hand function in the activities of holding a motorcycle and car steering wheel, holding a shopping bag, and cleaning hair. In the second case, there was an increase in the function of opening and closing the jar, opening the lock, opening the door handle, attaching the object to the rack, cleaning the back, and holding the motor steering wheel. In the third case, improved hand function was found in carrying heavy objects, shopping bags, and wearing clothes. There was no decrease in hand function reported in all three cases after the administration of visual imagery therapy. This shows that visual imagery therapy as an adjunctive rehabilitation treatment to motor function in patients with chronic ischemic stroke gives good results.