Anatomy and Physiology relating to stroke

 

Neuroplasticity

The brain (or the central nervous system) has the capability to reorganise by forming new neural connections. Neuroplasticity is the ability of the nervous system to modify its structural and functional organisation by forming these new neural connections.

In the past, benefits from rehabilitation were achieved primarily through training patients in techniques that avoided intense therapy of the affected limb, such as compensating for impairments (for example, using the unaffected hand for personal activities such as dressing and washing).

It is now recognised that participation by patients in task-specific repetitive functional tasks influences the process of functional reorganisation in the brain, enhancing neurological and functional recovery.