Innovative Approaches and Therapies to Enhance Neuroplasticity and Promote Recovery in Patients with Neurological Disorders: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Brain rehabilitation and recovery for people with neurological disorders, such as stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and neurodegenerative diseases, depend mainly on neuroplasticity, the brain's capacity to restructure and adapt. This literature review aims to look into cutting-edge methods and treatments that support neuroplasticity and recovery in these groups. A thorough search of electronic databases revealed a wide range of research and papers investigating several neuroplasticity-targeting methods, such as cognitive training, physical activity, non-invasive brain stimulation, and pharmaceutical interventions. The results indicate that these therapies can control neuroplasticity and improve motor, mental, and sensory function. In addition, cutting-edge approaches, such as virtual reality (VR) and brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), promise to increase neuroplasticity and foster rehabilitation. However, many issues and restrictions still need to be resolved, including the demand for individualized treatments and the absence of defined standards. In conclusion, this review emphasizes the significance of neuroplasticity in brain rehabilitation. It identifies novel strategies and treatments that promise to enhance recovery in patients with neurological illnesses. Future studies should concentrate on improving these therapies and developing evidence-based standards to direct clinical practice and enhance outcomes for this vulnerable population.

The Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Attention Optimization Research: A Review from Basic Theory to Findings in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Depression

“…After brain damage, other regions scan, adapt, and take over functions from the affected area, aiding in attention recovery. Understanding the mechanisms of neuroplasticity offers insights into how interventions can be designed to optimize attention [ 39 ]. Training programs, therapies, and lifestyle changes encouraging focused and sustained attention can harness neuroplasticity to enhance attentional abilities.…”

The grand challenge at the frontiers of neurotechnology and its emerging clinical applications

“…Research and development of neurotechnologies continues to progress at a rapid rate ( 7 – 9 ) and it is likely that in the future we will see the further development and deployment of more sophisticated brain–computer interfaces (BCI) and robotic devices, advances in materials and technological methods, and the identification of new technologies that have the potential to help those with what used to be considered as irreversible neurological outcomes to regain their functional capacity and quality of life. In 2022, the prospective, open-label, non-randomized Brain Gate feasibility study, the largest and longest-running clinical trial of an implanted BCI, reported positive safety results in patients with quadriparesis from spinal cord injury, brainstem stroke, or motor neuron disease ( 10 ), paving the way for further clinical research.…”

Risk Factors for Cognitive Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

“…This therapy aims to reduce cognitive impairment and improve awareness of cognitive difficulties encountered in daily living, thus having a positive impact on the quality of life of MS patients [73]. The underlying mechanisms explaining these beneficial effects correlate with the enhancement of functional and structural neuroplasticity, dependent on the trained cognitive tasks [74]. In addition, cognitive rehabilitation may induce beneficial neurobiological changes in the hypothalamic-pituitaryadrenal axis, improving the regulation of serotonin precursors and neurogenesis via direct mechanisms and also as an indirect effect that occurs with the decrease in the stress and depression level [75].…”