KNOWLEDGE GEM: From a clinical perspective, cortical neuroplastic changes are associated with altered motor function or behavior. Such plasticity can be viewed as adaptive when associated with a gain in function or as maladaptive when associated with negative consequences such as loss of function or increased injury (Cohen et al., 1997).

KNOWLEDGE GEM: Cortical neuroplastic changes in relation to motor skill training occur rapidly and continually develop with extended training. Evidence suggests that neuroplastic changes occur over very short training intervals. In fact, improvements in motor performance and rapid changes in cortical excitability have been noted following just 15 minutes of novel rehabilitation training. Increased cortical excitability has also been demonstrated following 2 to 4 weeks of novel motor training (Boudreau et al, 2010). 

KNOWLEDGE GEM: There are 5 factors affecting patients’ ability to make neuroplastic changes. It is important to address these factors with patients so they can get the most benefit from their brain based postural correction programs.

KNOWLEDGE GEM: When creating treatment plans for the patients in your office, it is important to consider evidence-based methodology for positive neuroplastic changes. Consider these 7 components of treatment plans designed for neuroplasticity. 

KNOWLEDGE GEM: “Neuroplasticity is the phenomenon in brain where different stimuli lead to increase or decrease in the number of brain cells and remodeling of synapses. Neuroplasticity research has now established beyond doubt that instead being a static cell mass, our brain is actually a dynamic system of neural network that has the capability of significant growth under favorable circumstances.” 

What is Neuroplasticity?

Why Neuroplasticity is Important

Factors of Positive Neuroplasticity

How to Design Treatment Plans for Neuroplastic Changes

Sample Treatment Plan for Brain Based Postural Correction

Evidence-Based Review