Treating Neurological Disorders Using Neuroplasticity (Ensslen-Boggs - Online)

Course overview

Neuroplasticity is the brains ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. Neuroplasticity allows the neurons (nerve cells) in the brain to compensate for injury and disease and to adjust their activities in response to new situations or to changes in their environment. Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of the nervous system to respond to new information or stimuli by reorganizing or adapting its structure. This dynamic reorganization can play a role in rehabilitation from things like stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and even progressive neurological diseases such as Parkinsons disease and dementia. Experience-dependent neuroplasticity is the continuing process of the regeneration and reorganization of neuron connections that occur as a result of a persons life experiences. Different circumstances and experiences during rehabilitation can significantly influence how certain areas of the brain regenerate and reorganize. By incorporating appropriate elements of experience-dependent neuroplasticity into treatment plans, rehab professionals can help to promote neurological changes that occur more quickly, more completely, and endure for longer periods of time.