Neuroplasticity and Motor Learning Flashcards
Long-term potentiation
**“Neurons that fire together wire together”
Strengthening of connections between neurons that has been established over a prolonged period of time
Long-term depression
Reduced synaptic strength established over a period of time
Ex) Change habits of using more compensatory patterns and rely more on more normal movements
Synaptic effectiveness
Baseline synapse strength that returns following resolution of inflammation
Denervation hypersensitivity
Increase in receptors on post-synaptic neuron
Synaptic hypereffectiveness
Increase neurotransmitter release in pre-synaptic axon terminals after damage causing increased stimulations of post-synaptic receptors
Unmasking silent synapses
Previously unused synapses come to life and become active after damage to other pathways
Collateral axonal sprouting
Intact pre-synaptic neurons re-innervate post-synaptic neuron after death of its original pre-synaptic neuron
Regenerative axonal sprouting
Injured pre-synaptic neurons sprouts to connect with a new post-synatpric neuron
Performance
An observable behavior that doesn’t ensure permanent ability/skill
Discrete movement
Beginning and end (squats, grasping an object, LAQs)
Serial movement
Series of discrete tasks combined (Stand-pivot transfers, walking to chair and sitting)
Continuous movement
No distinct beginning and end (walking, cycling swimming)
Non-declarative (implicit)
- Doesn’t require conscious awareness or attention
- Repetition
- Reflexive and automatic (texting on the phone)
Declarative (explicit)
- Can be consciously recalled and requires awareness and attention
- Involves association with people, things, experiences (teaching grandma how to text)
Cognitive/novice
- New to task
- High variability in performance
- Co-contraction used
- Requires cognition and attention
- Many errors
**Closed environment with mass/blocked practice
