Affiliations: [a] Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Science, Kio University, Nara, Japan | [b] Neurorehabilitation Research Center, Kio University, Nara, Japan
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Makoto Hiyamizu, Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Science, Neurorehabilitation Research Center, Kio University, 4-2-2 Umami-naka, Koryo-cho, Kitakatsuragi-gun, Nara 635-0832, Japan.
Tel.: +81 745 54 1601; Fax: +81 745 1600; E-mail: m.hiyamizu@kio.ac.jp
Abstract: Background:Studies suggest that the observation of others' actions leads to enhanced motor skill learning. Objective:We examined whether others' or self-action observation is effective for standing balance learning. In addition, we examined cortical activation during action observation using functional near-infrared spectroscopy. Methods:Thirty-nine healthy young subjects were assigned randomly to the Control, Other-Observation (O-O), and Self-Observation (S-O) groups. The subjects learned to stand on a tilting platform while maintaining a horizontal position. The Control group alternated each trial with a rest period. The O-O and S-O groups were provided with information related to their performance during the rest period: the O-O group observed another person, while the S-O group observed their previous performance. Cortical activation was assessed by changes of hemoglobin oxygenation (oxyHb). Results:A 2-way analysis of variance with repeated measures on balance performance revealed a significant difference in post-training (p < 0.05) and retention (p < 0.01) only in the S-O group. And an increase of oxyHb levels at post-training in the S-O group was observed in the supplementary motor area. Conclusion:Self-action observation improved standing balance and brain activity during training and at 24 h after training.
Keywords: Action observation, balance, motor learning, fNIRS
