neuroplasticity
The brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections throughout life, particularly important in recovery from neurological injury. Critical concept in rehabilitation medicine.
Full Definition
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's remarkable capacity to adapt, reorganize, and form new neural pathways in response to injury, disease, or changes in environment and behavior. This fundamental property underlies the brain's ability to recover function after stroke, trauma, or other neurological insults. In adult neurology practice, understanding neuroplasticity guides rehabilitation strategies and helps predict recovery potential. The concept encompasses both structural changes (new synapses, dendritic sprouting) and functional reorganization (recruitment of alternative brain regions). Modern neuroplasticity research has revolutionized approaches to neurorehabilitation and challenged earlier beliefs about the adult brain's limited capacity for change.
Usage
Usage note: Single word, no hyphen. Increasingly used in patient education materials.
In Context
- "The rehabilitation program was designed to harness neuroplasticity mechanisms for motor recovery." — Stroke rehabilitation plan
- "Advanced imaging revealed evidence of neuroplasticity in the contralesional hemisphere." — Research study report