Effects of electroacupuncture synchronised with motor imagery training on upper limb motor recovery and neural mechanisms in ischaemic stroke: protocol for a single-centre, randomised controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Approximately half of stroke survivors experience persistent upper limb dysfunction, which impairs self-care, reduces independence and lowers quality of life. Electroacupuncture is an established intervention with evidence supporting its role in improving upper limb motor function following ischaemic stroke. Motor imagery training (MIT), which activates the sensorimotor cortex through the mental rehearsal of movement, has shown promise as an adjunctive therapy in stroke rehabilitation. The concurrent application of electroacupuncture and MIT may enhance sensorimotor recovery by promoting the integration of central and peripheral neural pathways, potentially establishing a central-peripheral-central closed-loop circuit. However, empirical evidence supporting this integr

SUBMITTER: Chen X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12587913 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature