Motor learning while performing a motor task measured by magnetic resonance imaging: a systematic review

Abstract

Different variables, such as repetition and cognitive load, may explain the neurophysiological differences observed from one task to another in motor learning. This learning can be measured with functional magnetic resonance imaging. The aim of this systematic review was to document motor learning by functional magnetic resonance imaging during the performance of different simple or complex motor tasks in healthy subjects. The search for articles was carried out in the MEDLINE, PEDro, CINHAL and EBSCO databases in May 2020. The systematic review followed the PRISMA criteria. Nine studies were selected for a qualitative analysis. The quality of the studies ranged from 5 to 7 points on the PEDro scale. The qualitative analysis shows strong evidence that after repeating a motor task a motor learning process is generated. There is both strong and moderate evidence to show that action observation and sleep restriction are involved in motor learning. The results on sensory discrimination training were controversial. The results show, with high quality evidence, that repetition of a motor task is associated with the learning process, which seems to be related to a thickening of the motor cortex after the intervention measured with functional magnetic resonance imaging. These results are not conclusive, owing to the limiting factors of this systematic review.