Neuroplasticity and Motor Learning

Question 1

define long term potentiation

Answer 1

strengthening of the connection between neurons established over a prolonged period of time … “neurons that fire together, wire together”

Question 2

define long term depression and why it is important

Answer 2

reduction in synaptic strength established over a period of time … also important for learning to change habits (to decrease unwanted behaviors

Question 3

define synaptic effectiveness

Answer 3

baseline synaptic strength that returns upon resolution of edema, inflammation, etc

Question 4

define denervation hypersensitivity

Answer 4

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)

Question 5

define synaptic hypereffectiveness

Answer 5

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)

Question 6

define synkinesis

Answer 6

involuntary mm contraction that accompanies voluntary movements… ex// bells palsy where eyes close c attempt to smile

Question 7

rehab implications of “use it or lose it” principle of neuroplasticity

Answer 7

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)

Question 8

rehab implications of “use it and improve it” principle of neuroplasticity

Answer 8

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)

Question 9

rehab implications of “specificity matters” principle of neuroplasticity

Answer 9

specific skill training doesn’t necessarily generalize to other skills (hip flexion>lift LE into car)

Question 10

rehab implications of “repetition matters” principle of neuroplasticity and what are the 3 effects of repetition

Answer 10

1. increased synaptic strength, 2. increased # synapses, 3. cortical map reorganization
   …. need sufficient rehab to facilitate improved performance for learned skills

Question 11

rehab implications of “intensity matters” principle of neuroplasticity

Answer 11

high intensity activity induces greater neuroplasticity functional recovery after neuro injury BUT in some cases, early overuse can exacerbate lesion

Question 12

rehab implications of “time matters” principle of neuroplasticity

Answer 12

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

Question 13

rehab implications of “salience matters” principle of neuroplasticity and which NT system proposed ot be involved

Answer 13

dependent on salience (MEANINGFUL to person); personal/enviro factors can impact motivation/salience; cholinergic system

Question 14

rehab implications of “age matters” principle of neuroplasticity

Answer 14

aged brains are responsive to experience, but brain changes may be less profound and/or slower than younger brains

Question 15

rehab implications of “transference” principle of neuroplasticity

Answer 15

exercise increases neurotrophic factors and other palsticity related molecules ti improve function and exercise might provide a beneficial environment to promote neuroplasticity growth

Question 16

rehab implications of “interference” principle of neuroplasticity

Answer 16

learned non use/learned helplessness of involved limbs c use of compensation>neuroplasticity that is hard to UNLEARN
SO…. compensation can interfere with learning (proper way)