Review article

Impact of Physical Activity on Neuroplasticity and Neurorehabilitation after Stroke

Zdravka Poljaković

Abstract

Neuroplasticity is defined as the ability of the brain to adapt to new experience or circumstances, where the brain modifies, adapts or even morphologically changes as needed. Neuroplasticity is considered to be most prominent in early childhood, but recent research has confirmed its occurrence in adulthood as well, especially after brain injury. Today, it is a common fact that human brain has the ability to form new neuronal circuits and create new synaptic networks after ischemic injuries. This fact is the basis for the spontaneous recovery of certain functions after a stroke, as well as for the current approach to neurorehabilitation.
Neurorehabilitation involves intrinsic recovery mechanisms that are boosted through neuroplasticity, namely the possibility of neuronal pathway and synaptic network reorganisation in the domain of cognition, motoric functions, as well as mood and behaviour. Target physical activity as the crucial element of neurorehabilitation affecting all three modalities is essential for the prevention of incidence of numerous neurological impairments, especially cerebrovascular diseases.

Keywords

physical activity; neuroplasticity; stroke; neurorehabilitation

Hrčak ID:

227116

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/227116

Publication date:

28.10.2019.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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