How Our Interactive Metronome Works

Scroll down to see an explanation of the process.

Explanation of the Process

The IM program provides a structured, goal-oriented process that challenges the patient to synchronize a range of hand and foot exercises to a precise computer-generated reference tone heard through headphones. The patient attempts to match the rhythmic beat with repetitive motor actions.

A patented audio or visual guidance system provides immediate feedback measured in milliseconds and a score is provided.

Over the course of the program, patients learn to: focus and attend for longer periods of time, increase physical endurance and stamina, filter out internal and external distractions, improve ability to monitor mental and physical actions as they are occurring, and progressively improve performance.

Clinical Foundation

The human brain’s efficiency and performance depend on the seamless transition of neuronetwork signals from one area of the brain to another. Findings in a recent study by Neal Alpiner, MD, Functional MRI Study of the Effects of IM on Auditory-Motor Processing Networks suggest that IM works by augmenting internal processing speed within the neuroaxis. Key regions affected appear to involve the cerebellum, prefrontal cortex.

The IM program “trains the brain” to plan, sequence and process information more effectively through repetition of interactive exercises. Thirteen different hand and foot exercises are performed while auditory guide tones direct the individual to match the metronome beat.

Headphones plus hand and foot sensors are used to perform a series of repetitive exercises as the student actively attempts to match his/her movements to a computer-generated beat. The auditory guidance system progressively challenges the student to improve his/her accuracy and provides immediate, quantitative feedback. The difference between the student’s response and the metronome beat is measured in milliseconds (ms) and a score is provided. The goal is to lower the ms score, which indicates improved performance. This interactive training process provides an opportunity to exercise and build the core mental skills essential for learning and development and consists of fifteen 45-minute sessions which can be completed in approximately 5 weeks.

SIRRI is authorized to provide the Interactive Metronome (IM) Program.
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