Neuroplasticity: Its Role in Therapy

Our brains control our entire bodies, including themselves. The brain is the most complex organ in the human body, weighing roughly three pounds. Your brain is always active, even when you’re asleep, sending signals to different extremities of your body, ensuring proper functioning. On the other hand, in times of injury, the brain not only eases the rest of the body, but also has a remarkable ability to heal itself.

  A TBI is an acronym for traumatic brain injury, which includes external factors, such as concussions or contusions. On the other hand, a non-TBI specifies in internal aspects, which include strokes, aneurysms, and autoimmune diseases. These traumatic events prompt our brain to heal itself by forming new neural pathways, a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. 

Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to adapt to change and can be categorized into two forms: functional and structural. Functionally, it ties to the brain’s ability to heal itself after injury. Often, healthy regions of the brain adapt to take over the functions of damaged areas. Structurally, it accounts for changes in the brain’s structure in response to learning. These newly curated connections are formed through repetitive tasks, which can be encouraged in various therapies.

In physical therapy, physical therapists work with patients on tasks that stimulate the area of the brain responsible for movement control and coordination. For example, constraint-movement induced therapy is offered to stroke patients who have gained weakness in one area of the body. This particular method encourages the brain’s control of movement in the weaker area. With repetitive actions, connections become stronger and movement becomes easier. In occupational therapy, occupational therapists help individuals perform daily tasks by breaking them down into smaller steps. Ultimately, this strengthens connections between neurons, facilitating skill development. 

Although therapies can be a method for boosting neuroplasticity, several factors should be considered. The effectiveness of brain plasticity varies depending on the severity and age of an individual. To specify, being younger is an advantage. A 2008 study noted that disability scores following a TBI were significantly better in younger individuals, even when older survivors had less severe injuries.

A traumatic brain injury can damage brain cells and neural pathways, resulting in the loss of significant skills and abilities. However, your brain is quick to initiate the formation of new connections and strengthen existing ones.  Alternatively, messages can be rerouted to undamaged parts of the brain. Brain plasticity can be amplified through therapy and rehabilitation. These methods focus on partaking in repetitive tasks that can revitalize movement or activities. Neuroplasticity is not sci-fi– it’s your brain’s extraordinary ability to restore itself. 

References

Roland, J. Does brain plasticity increase after a head injury? SDBIF San Diego Brain Injury Foundation. https://sdbif.org/author/sdbif_new/, Published July 28, 2022. 

Diefenbach, Hilary. Brains have a remarkable ability to rewire themselves following injury − a concussion specialist explains the science behind rehabilitation and recovery. Brain Injury Association of America, https://biausa.org/public-affairs/media/brains-have-a-remarkable-ability-to-rewire-themselves-following-injury-%E2%88%92-a-concussion-specialist-explains-the-science-behind-rehabilitation-and-recovery, Published November 14, 2023.