Sensorimotor training and cortical reorganization

Several disorders that involve motor and sensory disturbances such as chronic pain, tinnitus, stroke or dystonia are also characterized by changes in the sensory and motor maps in the sensorimotor cortices. This article reviews training procedures that target these maladaptive changes and the behavioral and cortical changes that accompany them. In addition, we will discuss factors that influence these training procedures and discuss new developments. These procedures include training of perceptual abilities, motor function, direct cortical stimulation as well as behavioral approaches and have been shown to reorganize the altered sensory and motor maps. Treatments that combine several modalities such as imagery or mirror treatment as well as use of prostheses also have beneficial effects. Further research must elucidate the mechanisms of these plastic changes and relate them to disorders and treatments.