The Effects of Mirror Therapy on Upper Limb after Stroke: A Mini-Review

Abstract

Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and the improvement of upper limb function is one of the main challenges faced by them. Mirror therapy utilizes a table top mirror to create a reflection of one’s arm or hand, which used to help increase movement and decrease pain in limbs. The purpose of this current article is to review and collect the evidence for the effects of mirror therapy on upper limb impairment in patients with different stroke stages. Studies suggest that applied mirror therapy alone, or coupled with different methods such as electrical stimulation, can be helpful to improve motor recovery, motor performance, motor function, and activity of daily living.