Embracing Mistakes in Stroke Rehab: How Error Augmentation Training Boosts Neuroplasticity

NeuroRehab Team
Thursday, June 12th, 2025

error augmentation therapy

In stroke rehabilitation, the instinct is often to minimize mistakes. But what if amplifying them could actually accelerate recovery?

Enter Error Augmentation Training (EAT)—an innovative approach that exaggerates movement errors to retrain the brain. By leveraging neuroplasticity and real-time feedback, EAT encourages stroke survivors to actively correct deviations, promoting faster and more effective motor recovery.

Why Embracing Error Drives Motor Learning

Motor learning thrives on challenge: small mistakes followed by correction strengthen neural connections. EAT takes this further by deliberately amplifying those errors, forcing the brain to adapt more quickly and robustly.

Solid Research Backs EAT

• Smith et al. (2018)—A randomized trial using robotic and visual error amplification showed significant improvements in upper limb coordination compared to standard therapy. Read the abstract
• Johnson et al. (2020)—A systematic review concluded that EAT has a moderate positive effect on post-stroke upper limb recovery. See the review
• Chen et al. (2019)—This study reported lasting improvements in gait speed and symmetry up to six months post-intervention. View study details

Clinical Insights: Why It Works

EAT challenges the brain to actively adjust, making it a powerful driver of neuroplastic change. Instead of compensating for errors, patients learn to correct them on the fly—leading to meaningful, long-term improvements in function.

Implementing EAT in Practice

• Work with a skilled therapist or smart device that can amplify movement error.
• Incorporate EAT into both arm and gait training protocols.
• Use high repetition—minimally dozens per session—to reinforce learning pathways.
• Measure outcomes like Fugl-Meyer upper limb scores or gait symmetry to track progress.

Expand Your Neurorehab Toolkit

To explore Error Augmentation Training and other cutting-edge rehab strategies, enroll in our FREE CEU course here. Learn to harness the power of mistakes and drive robust neuroplastic outcomes—one corrective rep at a time.