University of Brighton Research Photo Competition
09. Seebacher, Barbara_photo
Image title: Incredibly interconnected
Description: This photograph illustrates the interconnection of the human brain which enables motor learning and, thus, is a basis for physiotherapy to function. Here, the researcher is presenting a novel walking rehabilitation approach, a combination of motor imagery and rhythmic music. Motor imagery involves a person imagining movements. During motor imagery about walking, similar brain networks are activated as when walking is executed. Actual walking can be enhanced by using instrumental music at a regular beat. An underlying mechanism for that is synchronisation of the brain’s rhythmic-auditory and motor circuits. On these grounds, this research project aimed at investigating the effects and mechanisms of rhythmic-cued motor imagery on walking in people with a neurologic disorder called multiple sclerosis. We hypothesised that the connections between the brain’s rhythmic-auditory and motor networks would be strengthened by the rhythmic-cued motor imagery practice; moreover, we suggested that to induce walking improvement in participants.
Barbara Seebacher
School of Health Sciences
09. Seebacher, Barbara_photo
Image title: Incredibly interconnected
Description: This photograph illustrates the interconnection of the human brain which enables motor learning and, thus, is a basis for physiotherapy to function. Here, the researcher is presenting a novel walking rehabilitation approach, a combination of motor imagery and rhythmic music. Motor imagery involves a person imagining movements. During motor imagery about walking, similar brain networks are activated as when walking is executed. Actual walking can be enhanced by using instrumental music at a regular beat. An underlying mechanism for that is synchronisation of the brain’s rhythmic-auditory and motor circuits. On these grounds, this research project aimed at investigating the effects and mechanisms of rhythmic-cued motor imagery on walking in people with a neurologic disorder called multiple sclerosis. We hypothesised that the connections between the brain’s rhythmic-auditory and motor networks would be strengthened by the rhythmic-cued motor imagery practice; moreover, we suggested that to induce walking improvement in participants.
Barbara Seebacher
School of Health Sciences