Visuomotor adaptation to optical prisms: a new cure for spatial neglect?
In this issue, McIntosh and colleagues show that visual and haptic deficits in spatial neglect can be improved following a brief period of visuomotor adaptation to rightward displacing optical prisms. Their paper is the latest in a series of recent studies that have demonstrated the utility of prismatic adaptation in reducing the clinical symptoms of unilateral spatial neglect (Pisella et al., 2002; Rode et al., 1999; Rossetti et al., 1998; Rossetti et al., 1999). The technique has great promise as a rehabilitative tool, and may provide unique insights into the underlying mechanisms of spatial perception and action in normality and pathology. In this article I provide an introduction to the neuropsychological syndrome of spatial neglect, highlighting the significant rehabilitative challenges it poses for clinicians. I then outline the prism adaptation procedure, and consider the possible reasons for its beneficial effects in patients with spatial neglect. I conclude with some open questions and suggestions for future research.
Mattingley
Jason B
JB
Department of Psychology, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. j.mattingley@psych.unimelb.edu.au
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D004292:Dominance, Cerebral / Q000502:physiology*; D005139:Eyeglasses; D006801:Humans; D055095:Optics and Photonics; D009949:Orientation / Q000502:physiology*; D010468:Perceptual Disorders / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D010469:Perceptual Distortion / Q000502:physiology; D011596:Psychomotor Disorders / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*