미러뉴런시스템과 뇌졸중 재활

Mirror Neuron System and Stroke Rehabilitation

Purpose : The purpose of this article was to review the literature on mirror neuron system with reference to its functional diversity in stroke rehabilitation.. Method : This review outlines scientific findings regarding different neurophysiological properties in mirror neurons, and discusses their involvement in process of stroke rehabilitation. Result & Conclusions : Mirror neurons were first discovered in macaque monkey. These neurons, like most neurons in F5 areas in premotor cortex, fired when an individual performs an action, as well as when he/she observes a similar action done by another individual, although originally fired only during action execution. Mirror neurons form a network for motor planning and initiating of motor action. Thus, in stroke rehabilitation based on the mirror neuron-action observation, motor imagery, observation with intent to imitate and imitation-may help activate mirror neuron system for improved outcome of physical therapy. These studies provide a scientific theoretical basis and discuss for the use of mirror neuron system as a complement to clinical physical therapy in stroke rehabilitation.