graded motor imagery
Also written as: GMI — Graded Motor Imagery
A sequenced rehabilitation programme using laterality recognition, explicit motor imagery, and mirror therapy to treat chronic pain and movement disorders by progressively engaging cortical motor networks.
Full Definition
Graded Motor Imagery (GMI) is a structured three-stage intervention developed primarily for complex regional pain syndrome and phantom limb pain, progressively engaging the cortical motor system without provoking pain. The three stages—left/right limb laterality recognition, explicit motor imagery (imagining movements), and mirror therapy—are delivered in sequence based on the patient's pain response. Editors should capitalise 'Graded Motor Imagery' as a proper programme name when referring to the branded protocol and write it in lowercase only when used descriptively. GMI should not be confused with 'motor imagery' alone, which refers only to mentally rehearsing movements without the full graded protocol. Documents referencing GMI should also define mirror therapy separately if it is discussed as a standalone intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalise as 'Graded Motor Imagery' when referring to the specific branded three-stage protocol. Distinguish explicitly from 'mirror therapy' and 'motor imagery' in clinical documents where these appear as separate interventions.
In Context
- "A six-week graded motor imagery programme was initiated to address the complex regional pain syndrome in the patient's right hand." — Pain rehabilitation treatment plan
- "The systematic review noted that studies frequently conflated graded motor imagery with stand-alone mirror therapy, reducing comparability of results." — Systematic review manuscript