Stroke often causes normal patterns of motor activity to be lost. New sensorimotor processes must therefore be learnt in order to perform actions that were previously automatic.  

Healthy adults can perform skilled movements, such as making a cup of tea, while holding a conversation, however the ability to combine such tasks is often impaired after neurological damage (Haggard & Cockburn, 1998; Haggard et al, 2000). 

Clare Harley is currently investigating the relationship between cognitive and motor recovery after stroke, specifically the extent to which deficits in one may impede functional competence in the other. 

Martin Smyth has worked on the design of interactive VR displays for movement rehabilitation (EPSRC) and there are future plans to merge the themes being developed by William Harwin in the Dept of Cybernetics.