Cortical Plasticity

The brain's ability to reorganize its neural connections and functional organization in response to injury, learning, or environmental changes. In the context of disability and rehabilitation, cortical plasticity is the mechanism by which undamaged brain areas can assume functions previously performed by damaged regions, enabling recovery of motor, sensory, or cognitive abilities after events such as stroke or traumatic brain injury. Intensive and repetitive practice has been shown to promote cortical plasticity, forming the neurological basis for rehabilitation programs including technology-mediated interventions like virtual reality exercise systems.