Article

Studies suggest that the observation of others' actions leads to
enhanced motor skill learning. OBJECTIVE: We examined whether others' or
self-action observation is effective for standing balance learning. In addition,
we examined cortical activation during action observation using functional
near-infrared spectroscopy. METHODS: Thirty-nine healthy young subjects were
assigned randomly to the Control, Other-Observation (O-O), and Self-Observation
(S-O) groups. The subjects learned to stand on a tilting platform while
maintaining a horizontal position. The Control group alternated each trial with a
rest period. The O-O and S-O groups were provided with information related to
their performance during the rest period: the O-O group observed another person,
while the S-O group observed their previous performance. Cortical activation was
assessed by changes of hemoglobin oxygenation (oxyHb). RESULTS: A 2-way analysis
of variance with repeated measures on balance performance revealed a significant
difference in post-training (p < 0.05) and retention (p < 0.01) only in the S-O
group. And an increase of oxyHb levels at post-training in the S-O group was
observed in the supplementary motor area. CONCLUSION: Self-action observation
improved standing balance and brain activity during training and at 24 h after
training.

Langue : ANGLAIS