Previous studies have shown that the neuroplasticity of the residual corticospinal fibers, the motor cortex and the spinal neurons plays an important role in the spontaneous functional recovery of people with neurological or musculoskeletal pathology. However, it is also possible to stimulate the neuroplasticity mechanisms of these structures through techniques aimed at rehabilitating different deficits (for example, motor function or sensitivity). In general, intervention programs are usually carried out, in most cases, using low-cost strategies such as therapeutic physical exercise programs.
The objective of this study is to analyze the effectiveness of visual illusion therapies in combination with conventional exercises on the symptoms and signs related to incomplete spinal cord injury that affects the upper limb.
The study will include the realization of three measurements that will be carried out one day before starting the program, one day after finishing it, and one month later (follow-up).
The clinical assessment will be composed of the study of the following variables: Motor function and motor skills, Upper limb isometric force, Muscle activation, Muscle tone, Quality of life, Functionality. All interventions will last eight weeks and will be planned according to the availability of volunteers. In each session, it will be recorded if any type of adverse effect occurs. There will be four types of interventions: i. Visual Illusion (IV) and therapeutic exercise program (PE), ii.placebo and PE, iii. IV, iv. IV placebo.
Incomplete cervical spinal cord injury (AIS C, D or E).
Ability to understand instructions (Mini-Mental State Examination> 23 points)
Traumatic pathology in upper limbs.
Other alterations of the central nervous system or peripheral
Alterations in the vestibular system.
Concomitant diseases.