Aprendizagem motora implícita em pacientes pós-AVC

Abstract

Introduction: Implicit learning is an unconscious process that occurs during the performance of motor tasks, without the individual developing declarative knowledge. Stroke is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders, causing significant disabilities, especially in the elderly. Objective: This study aimed to compare implicit learning of sequential motor skills between post-stroke patients and individuals without neurological disorders. Methodology: A cross-sectional and quantitative study was conducted with 40 participants divided into two groups: 20 post-stroke individuals and 20 without neurological disorders. Participants were assessed using instruments such as “Player Feedback,” the NASA-TLX Scale, and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). In the post-stroke group, the NIHSS and the Fugl-Meyer Physical Performance Scale (FM) were also applied, while participants without neurological disorders completed the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory (EHI). Results: The results indicated that post-stroke patients showed inferior performance in variables such as the number and percentage of correct responses, particularly on the most affected side. Discussion: Significant differences were observed in motor performance and the execution of sequential movement patterns, highlighting deficits in implicit learning, possibly related to alterations in motor and cognitive networks. Nevertheless, implicit learning was relatively preserved on the less affected side. Conclusion: It is concluded that, although stroke partially impairs implicit learning, targeted interventions can assist in motor recovery and the execution of functional tasks, especially on the affected side.