Neuroplasticity and Motor Learning Flashcards
define long term potentiation
strengthening of the connection between neurons established over a prolonged period of time … “neurons that fire together, wire together”
define long term depression and why it is important
reduction in synaptic strength established over a period of time … also important for learning to change habits (to decrease unwanted behaviors
define synaptic effectiveness
baseline synaptic strength that returns upon resolution of edema, inflammation, etc
define denervation hypersensitivity
increase in receptors on POST synaptic neuron due to destruction of pre synaptic neurons (makes changes to increase sensitivity to find new connection to decrease loss of that function)
define synaptic hypereffectiveness
increaed NT release in available PRE synpatic axon terminals after damage resulting in increased stimulation of post synaptic receptors (to increase liklihood of neuron purpose to get through)
define synkinesis
involuntary mm contraction that accompanies voluntary movements… ex// bells palsy where eyes close c attempt to smile
rehab implications of “use it or lose it” principle of neuroplasticity
reallocation of cortical territory rather than total loss of cortical function post injury (think, fail to engage brain system>degradation of function AND functional recovery supported by shifting novel function to other brain areas)
rehab implications of “use it and improve it” principle of neuroplasticity
repetitive motor activity alone doesn’t produce functional reorganization… motor learning of new skill is required for plasticity (easy tasks don’t promote change in brain)
rehab implications of “specificity matters” principle of neuroplasticity
specific skill training doesn’t necessarily generalize to other skills (hip flexion>lift LE into car)
rehab implications of “repetition matters” principle of neuroplasticity and what are the 3 effects of repetition
- increased synaptic strength, 2. increased # synapses, 3. cortical map reorganization
…. need sufficient rehab to facilitate improved performance for learned skills
rehab implications of “intensity matters” principle of neuroplasticity
high intensity activity induces greater neuroplasticity functional recovery after neuro injury BUT in some cases, early overuse can exacerbate lesion
rehab implications of “time matters” principle of neuroplasticity
early intervention promotes better function with neuroplasticity and limiting self taught compensatory strategies; with delayed rehab, less likely to make changes AT site of injury but there is still neuro potential of surrounding areas
rehab implications of “salience matters” principle of neuroplasticity and which NT system proposed ot be involved
dependent on salience (MEANINGFUL to person); personal/enviro factors can impact motivation/salience; cholinergic system
rehab implications of “age matters” principle of neuroplasticity
aged brains are responsive to experience, but brain changes may be less profound and/or slower than younger brains
rehab implications of “transference” principle of neuroplasticity
exercise increases neurotrophic factors and other palsticity related molecules ti improve function and exercise might provide a beneficial environment to promote neuroplasticity growth