Physiotherapy and Neurorehabilitation: Emerging Trends and Therapies

Dear Colleagues,

Neurological disorders are among the leading causes of long-term disability worldwide and represent a growing public health concern due to population aging and improved survival rates. Conditions such as stroke, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases often result in persistent motor, sensory, and cognitive impairments that significantly affect functional independence and quality of life. Physiotherapy and neurorehabilitation play a fundamental role in promoting recovery and maximizing participation in individuals with neurological conditions. Recent advances in neuroscience and motor learning have contributed to a better understanding of neuroplasticity mechanisms, fostering the development of innovative and evidence-based rehabilitation strategies.

Emerging trends in neurorehabilitation emphasize intensive, task-specific, and patient-centered interventions designed to optimize functional outcomes. Novel therapeutic approaches such as motor imagery, action observation therapy, and external focus of attention have shown promising results in enhancing motor performance and facilitating neural reorganization. In parallel, technological innovations including virtual reality, robotics, wearable devices, and telerehabilitation platforms are expanding the possibilities for accessible and personalized rehabilitation. These advances provide new opportunities to improve treatment effectiveness and patient engagement; however, further high-quality research is required to establish their clinical efficacy and long-term impact across different neurological populations and age groups.

This Special Issue aims to present and disseminate the latest scientific advances and innovative therapeutic approaches in physiotherapy and neurorehabilitation. We welcome original research articles, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical studies that explore novel rehabilitation strategies and contribute to improving functional recovery, activity, and participation in individuals with neurological conditions across the lifespan.

Topics of interest for publication include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Innovative physiotherapy approaches in neurorehabilitation
• Parkinson´s disease and innovative physical therapies
• Motor imagery and action observation in neurological rehabilitation
• External focus of attention and motor learning
• Pediatric neurorehabilitation and neuropediatrics
• Stroke rehabilitation and recovery strategies
• Technology-assisted rehabilitation (virtual reality, robotics, wearables)
• Telerehabilitation and digital health in neurological physiotherapy
• Task-oriented and intensive rehabilitation programs
• Neuroplasticity and motor recovery
• Evidence-based physiotherapy interventions in neurological populations

Dr. Irimia Mollinedo-Cardalda
Dr. Esther Monge Pereira
Guest Editors

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