Reflections on mirror therapy in stroke: Mechanisms and effectiveness for improving hand function

Stroke is currently the second cause of death in the western world; one year following stroke, half of all patients have died. From the surviving half, a large part remains disabled and 55% to 75% of them have a paretic arm. This makes stroke the main cause of acquired adult disability. Deficits after a stroke consist, amongst other things, of motor problems, sensory problems and spasticity, and can range from complete paralysis of the upper-extremity towards relatively minor coordination deficits. Such impairments affect an individual’s ability to complete everyday activities (disability) and affect participation in everyday life situations. As there is no cure for stroke, rehabilitation is the primary means of increasing upper limb functioning.

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