neuroplasticity Flashcards
neuroplasticity intr
Issue: Neuroplasticity refers to how the brain changes over time as a result of environmental influences (such as driving a taxi!).
On a small scale, its called synaptic plasticity (form new synaptic connections, break old ones)
Large scale, its called cortical remapping (when brain area X assumes role of area Y, for example in case of injury)
Issue
The brain is not static and strict. localisation of function is being replaced by the idea that the brain is adaptable and continues to change throughout adult life. Through Neuroplasticity the neural networks of the brain can change according to the demands of the environment, genetics or injury.
Research into Neuroplasticity in humans is difficult. Causal relationships of Animal studies may be less applicable to humans and research into the effects on humans may suggest its effects but direct causal relaionships hard difficult to find. As such we need to be able to tolerate uncertainty due to ethics and research challenges in studying neuroplasticity. It is important to evaluate neuroplasticity so that we can use this knowledge to help people in learning or recovering from injury.
For example. Neuroplaticity can be used in treatments such as:
cortical remapping
phantom limb and mirror therapy
