Application of motor imagery in the processing of patients with Parkinson's disease using virtual reality: Systematic review

Authors

  • Sergio Barbosa-Granados Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia
  • Valentina Castaño-Álvarez Neuropsicóloga, Pereira (Colombia)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14482/sun.41.03.530.063

Keywords:

Parkinson's disease, neuropsychology, mental health, neurotechnology, virtual reality, motor imagery

Abstract

Introduction: Parkinson's Disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and cognitive alterations that represent a deterioration, especially in elderly populations. However, advances in neuroscience have enabled the development of innovative technologies, such as Motor Imagery assisted by Virtual Reality, which offer new perspectives for neuromotor rehabilitation. These tools allow patients to visualize and control their bodies autonomously without the need for physical movement, thanks to high-precision sensors integrated into virtual reality equipment. This strategy not only optimizes the activation of neural circuits involved in motor control but also facilitates neuroplasticity, thus contributing to functional improvement in people with Parkinson's Disease.

Objective: To conduct a systematic review on the application of motor imagery training in the process of patients with Parkinson's disease using virtual reality.

Methodology: The systematic review data were collected following the PRISMA group guidelines. The search was conducted in recognized databases, such as Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. For the selection of studies, inclusion criteria were applied that considered articles published in the last 10 years, written in English or Spanish, and peer-reviewed by at least three academic peers. Keywords such as "Parkinson's Disease", "mental health", "neuropsychology", "virtual reality", "rehabilitation", "Motor Imagery", and "neurotechnology" were used. After applying these filters, seven studies were included in the review. The exclusion criteria, for their part, were established according to the previously defined PICOS strategy.

Results: The results highlight the potential of motor imagery and virtual reality in the rehabilitation of patients with Parkinson's disease, especially in improving balance and gait. The incorporation of emerging technologies such as virtual reality promises significant advances in the rehabilitation of motor function in these patients, as it allows intensive and repetitive practice in controlled and personalized environments. It offers real-time feedback, which improves motor learning and neuroplasticity. It can also increase motivation and adherence to therapy, key factors for functional recovery.

Conclusion: Studies suggest that the combination of motor imagery and virtual reality can improve motor functions in patients with Parkinson's disease, especially in balance and gait. However, although preliminary results are promising, more scientific evidence is still required to validate its effectiveness at different stages of the disease. It is essential to conduct research with a rigorous methodological approach to determine its clinical applicability. As technology advances and virtual reality devices become more accessible, their integration into rehabilitation could represent a viable and effective alternative, provided that future studies confirm their positive impact on motor recovery.

Author Biographies

Sergio Barbosa-Granados, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia

Psicólogo, Universidad Autónoma de Bucaramanga (Colombia). Magíster en Neuropsicología Clínica, Universidad Internacional de Valencia (España). Profesor e investigador, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, sede Pereira. sergio.barbosag@campusucc.edu.co. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2582-2495

Valentina Castaño-Álvarez, Neuropsicóloga, Pereira (Colombia)

Psicóloga, Universidad Católica de Pereira (Colombia). Magíster en Neuropsicología y Educación, Universidad Internacional de La Rioja (España). Neuropsicóloga, Pereira (Colombia). psicologavalentinacastano@gmail.com. https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0520-5307

Published

2025-08-26

How to Cite

Barbosa-Granados, S., & Castaño-Álvarez, V. . (2025). Application of motor imagery in the processing of patients with Parkinson’s disease using virtual reality: Systematic review. SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL SALUD UNINORTE, 41(3), 879–900. https://doi.org/10.14482/sun.41.03.530.063

Issue

Section

SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS (WITHOUT META-ANALYSIS)