Attention focus plays an essential role in promoting motor performance and motor learning. There are two types of attention focus: internal focus and external focus. Internal focus refers to direct attention inside the body while external focus refers to direct attention outside the body. Several studies have reported that external focus positively affects motor performance and motor learning by promoting automatic control. The mechanisms of attention focus have been examined using electromyography (EMG), electroencephalography (EEG), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). During rehabilitation, therapists promote patients’ movement acquisition and motor learning. This chapter reviews the application of attention focus in rehabilitation to promote motor performance and motor learning in patients.
Part of the book: Neurorehabilitation and Physical Therapy
Neurofeedback (NFB) is a closed-loop technique in which the patient receives feedback on brain activity to encourage voluntary control of brain activity. NFB promotes neuroplasticity and changes the brain functionally and structurally. Motor imagery-based NFB (MI-NFB) can improve motor imagery ability by providing feedback on brain activity during motor imagery, thereby showing effectiveness in performance and motor learning. Furthermore, the effects of MI-NFB are further enhanced when it is combined with noninvasive brain stimulation and motor exercise. Therefore, MI-NFB is used in the physiotherapy of patients with neurological diseases, such as stroke and Parkinson disease, as well as children with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder and elderly people. This chapter reviews MI-NFB in physiotherapy practice, thus contributing to the development of effective evidence-based physiotherapy.
Part of the book: Physical Therapy