A Comparative Analysis of Mirror Therapy and Motor Relearning Techniques for Enhancing Upper Limb Function in Stroke Recovery
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Abstract
Background: Stroke commonly causes persistent upper limb motor impairment, limiting functional independence and daily activity performance. Rehabilitation strategies that promote neuroplasticity, task-specific practice, and motor relearning are essential for improving post-stroke arm and hand function. Objective: To compare the effects of mirror therapy, motor relearning programme, and conventional physiotherapy on upper limb functional recovery among post-stroke patients. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 60 adult post-stroke patients aged 45–75 years with first-ever unilateral stroke and residual upper limb impairment. Participants were allocated equally into three groups: motor relearning programme, mirror therapy, and conventional physiotherapy. Interventions were delivered for 60 minutes per session, 5 days per week, for 8 weeks. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, week 4, and week 8 using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Upper Extremity as the primary outcome, with Motor Assessment Scale and Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory as secondary outcomes. Results: All groups showed improvement after 8 weeks, but gains were greatest in the motor relearning programme group. FMA-UE increased by 12.9 points in the motor relearning programme group, compared with 8.8 points in the mirror therapy group and 4.0 points in the control group. MAS and CAHAI also improved most strongly with motor relearning programme, with gains of 12.2 and 15.6 points, respectively. Conclusion: Motor relearning programme produced greater improvement in upper limb motor recovery and functional activity performance than mirror therapy or conventional physiotherapy, while mirror therapy remained beneficial as an accessible adjunctive rehabilitation approach
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