Mirror therapy is a type of visual imagery used as a rehabilitation tool. It began in the 90s to improve the pain of the “phantom limb” in amputees, and years later it began to be used in patients who had suffered brain damage and had motor involvement of a limb. Currently, although there are fewer studies or evidence, it can also be used in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia, facial paralysis, or to improve visual hemineglect.
This therapy works by activating mirror neurons after observing a healthy part of the body reflected in a mirror.
How Do We Do it?
It consists of visualizing the healthy limb (hand or foot) reflected in a mirror that is in the midline of our body, “making” our brain “believe” that we are seeing the affected side. At the same time, we can perform movements and even tasks, either with a single part of the body (the healthy one) or both (healthy and affected side).
What are its Objectives and Benefits?
This therapy is mainly used with three objectives: to improve movement, sensitivity, and the quality of life of the people who perform it.
But its benefits go further, improving strength, quality and quantity of movement, as well as sensitivity and distal dexterity.
At FIVAN, we go a step further and combine this technique with transcranial electrical stimulation (tDCS) so that we enhance the benefits of both therapies.
tDCS is a non-invasive and painless technique that involves applying a low-intensity electrical current to the scalp that interacts with the cerebral cortex. This technique induces changes in neural activity and helps us obtain better results in the tasks set.
If you want more information, do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to inform you and help you with whatever you need.
