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Activity-dependent plasticity in spinal cord injury

James V. Lynskey, PhD, PT

Figure. Activity-dependent plasticity after spinal cord injury (SCI).

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) can severely disrupt motor, sensory, and autonomic functions. In the first year after an incomplete injury, significant recovery often occurs. The recovery depends on multiple factors, including the level and extent of injury, postinjury medical and surgical care, and rehabilitative interventions. This article will help patients, their families, and care givers to understand the spontaneous changes that occur after SCI and how rehabilitation therapies using exercise and/or electrical stimulation could promote changes in the nervous system to improve recovery of function.


Volume 45 Number 2, 2008
Pages 229 — 240

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