Effects of Mirror Therapy on Subacute Stroke Patients' Brain Waves and Upper Extremity Functions

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of mirror therapy on subacute stroke patients' brain waves and upper extremity functions. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty patients who experienced the onset of stroke within six months prior to this study were randomly and equally assigned to a control group (n=10) and a mirror therapy group (n=10). In addition to the existing rehabilitation treatment, the control group received sham therapy and the mirror therapy group received mirror therapy for 30 minutes each time, five times per week, for four weeks. Prior to and after the intervention, the changes in the subjects were measured using electroencephalography (EEG) and a manual function test (MFT). [Results] Mu rhythm suppression at C3, Cz, and C4 was significant in both groups after the intervention, with a more effective result in the mirror therapy group. Mu rhythm suppression was compared between the two groups after the intervention: it significantly differed between them at C3, Cz, and C4. According to the MFT results, manual functions improved significantly in both groups, with a better enhancement in the mirror therapy group. Each group also saw significant changes in its MFT results after the intervention. [Conclusion] Mirror therapy had an effect on mu rhythm suppression, improving brain activities and positively influencing motor function recovery. It is simple to apply, and patients can perform it independently. It is also cost-effective. Therefore, it is considered to be useful as part of a rehabilitation program for subacute stroke patients.