Neuroplasticity & Motor Recovery Flashcards

According to Brunnstrom's stages of motor recovery, what characterizes Stage 3?

Answer: Voluntary movement is possible but only within obligatory synergy patterns, with spasticity at its peak

Brunnstrom Stage 3 is defined by the appearance of voluntary movement confined to abnormal flexion or extension synergy patterns, coinciding with maximal spasticity.

Which factor is considered most critical for driving neuroplasticity and functional motor recovery after stroke?

Answer: High-intensity, task-specific, repetitive practice

High-intensity, task-specific, repetitive practice is the most potent driver of neuroplasticity because it repeatedly activates target neural circuits, promoting synaptic strengthening and cortical reorganization.

What is Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and its significance in stroke recovery?

Answer: A neurotrophin that promotes neuron survival, synaptic growth, and neuroplasticity, increased by aerobic exercise

BDNF is a key protein that supports neuronal survival, promotes synaptic plasticity, and facilitates motor learning; aerobic exercise significantly upregulates BDNF expression in the brain.

What is the primary neuroplastic mechanism targeted by Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT)?

Answer: Overcoming learned non-use of the affected extremity by restraining the unaffected limb and forcing use of the impaired arm

CIMT targets learned non-use by physically constraining the intact limb, compelling the patient to use the affected arm and inducing cortical reorganization in motor areas.

What is axonal sprouting in the context of post-stroke neuroplasticity?

Answer: Growth of new branches from intact surviving axons that form new synaptic connections with denervated neurons

Axonal sprouting involves surviving neurons extending new axon collaterals to form synapses with neurons that lost their original input, contributing to functional circuit restoration.

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'learned non-use' after stroke?

Answer: A conditioned suppression of affected limb use arising from repeated early failures, persisting even when neurological recovery would allow function

Learned non-use is a behavioral conditioning phenomenon in which early post-stroke failures condition the patient to abandon attempts to use the affected limb, masking true recovery potential.

What is the primary role of dopamine in motor recovery and neuroplasticity after stroke?

Answer: It modulates synaptic plasticity and motor learning through reward-based circuits, facilitating activity-dependent reorganization

Dopamine plays a critical role in modulating reward-based motor learning circuits and activity-dependent plasticity, which is why dopaminergic agents have been investigated as adjuncts to stroke rehabilitation.