Neural correlates of visuomotor transformations using the Rehabilitation Gaming System (RGS): actual and imagined target catching

Aims: The Rehabilitation Gaming System is an interactive computer simulation tool used to improve rehabilitation of motor deficits in stroke or other neurological patients. Based on a virtual reality RGS mimics the movements of the user by two virtual arms of an avatar integrated in a virtual environment. We assumed that combined observation, imagination and active execution of movements induce neural reorganization and fascilitate functional recovery. Method: In this event-related function magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study investigating the brain system engaged in these processes, we used statistical para…