Neuroplasticty Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is neuroplasticity?
The adaptive capacity of the CNS and its ability to modify its own structural organisation and functioning
What is neuroplasticity thought to be?
The underlying principle by which post stroke patients recover occurs
Where does neuroplasticity occur?
ONLY in the brain, regeneration does not occur in the CNS
When does most recovery occur post stroke?
The first 1-3 months
What is phantom limb?
When a limb is amputated and the brain still expects to receive sensory input from it
What does neuroplasticity involve?
New brain routing connections form due to a blockage. The rerouting connection then become the new normal
What does “unmasking” dormant pathways refer to?
Neural pathways that previously lay dormant become more effective due to the inability to use the primary pathways following disease or injury
What increases the more dormant pathways are used?
Synaptic strength
How are new synapses formed?
Colateral sprouting
What two things happen simultaneously during neuroplasticity ?
Colateral sprouting and unmasking (reorganisation)
What are the key points to promote neuroplasticity?
- using a particular neural pathway will make it stronger
- practicing an activity increases learning
- plasticity occurs in response to demand
How does repetition help neuroplasticity?
By building and strengthening new nerve pathways
As physiotherapists, how can we maximise repetition?
- interesting and varied activities
- motivation
- home programmes
- education and clear communication
- aerobic exercise promotes plasticity
What is collateral sprouting?
Adjacent neurons may sprout axons in order to strengthen neuronal pathways as part of neuroplasticity mechanisms
What are the 10 principles of neuroplasticity?
1) Use it or lose it
2) Use it and improve it
3) Specificity
4) Repetition matters
5) Intensity matters
6) Time matters
7) Salience matters
8) Age matters
9) Transference
10) Interference
