NEURONAL PLASTICITY AND THE SCIENTIFIC BASES OF NEUROHABILITATION
Summary. Introduction. The validity of methods of neurological habilitation and rehabilitation has long been questioned by a
large proportion of the medical profession. This sceptical attitude was partly due to lack of scientific confirmation of the theories
on which methods of habilitation-rehabilitation were based, and the absence of reliable studies of the follow-up of such treatment,
designed on strict statistical criteria. Development. Advances in recent years in understanding neuronal plasticity have permitted
better understanding of the mechanisms which come into action following brain damage and the factors which help or hinder
recovery, and the various possible patterns involved in the reorganization of neuronal circuits. A review of studies of animal
experiments, and recently in humans (using techniques of functional imaging and magnetic exploration) show that by sensory
stimulation and exercise it is possible to modify the structure and function of the brain, after its somatotopical organization,
increase synaptic connections, influence the orientation of the dendrites, number of receptors etc. There are critical periods in
development during which these plastic properties of the brain become fully developed and subsequently the possibility of recovery
is considerably less. Conclusions. The findings of neurobiological investigation show that there are good prospects for the
recovery of a damaged nervous system by means of embryonic neurone implantation, axon bridges, transference of genes
producing trophic factor, enzymes, neurotransmitters etc. In any case, therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation teaching
continue to be useful for the functional recovery of these patients. [REV NEUROL 2002; 34 (Supl 1): S130-5]
Key words. Sensory deprivation. Early stimulation. Trophic factors. Habilitation-rehabilitation. Somatotopic organization. Neurone
plasticity
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