Neuroplasticity

Brain neuroplasticity is central for learning and memory. It allows us to respond to the changes in the environment. Neuroplasticity, a life-long process that mediates the structural and functional reaction of neuronal structures to experience, attrition, and injury, plays an imperative role in recovery. Understanding the ability of the nervous system to adapt or modify functions and compensate for damage is critical to improving rehabilitative strategies and optimizing functional outcomes. For a long time, the hardware of the brain was considered “hard” and believed to be never restorable following neurological conditions like stroke or traumatic brain injury. However, the current data suggest that neurons possess a remarkable ability to alter their structure and function to a variety of internal and external pressures, including rehabilitative training. Evidence also strongly suggests that rehabilitative training is the most successful means to enhance functional recovery following such incidences. This chapter provides an overview of the historical background, different forms of neuroplasticity, and plasticity within the developing and adult brains.