One of the many incredible attributes of the human brain is its neuro-plasticity – its ability to rewire neural pathways, in response to recover from damage caused by stroke, or injury.

A new study in Lancet Digital, cited in Science Daily on March 29, suggests the brain can respond to stroke (interruption of blood flow to part of the brain), in a surprising way:

“…when stroke damages brain tissue along an important pathway, the injured side of the brain may show faster aging, while parts of the opposite side may appear relatively younger, as the brain tries to compensate.”

In other words, if there is stroke-induced damage in the right hemisphere, the left hemisphere may step up to compensate.

This process may take some time. But perhaps it can be assisted, by persistent, comprehensive brain workouts. It may be a long hard process, because right and left hemispheres have different roles (logic & language; emotion and relationships).

I think the message here is: if you or a loved one suffers brain trauma from, say, a stroke – do not give up. It may be possible to employ neuroplasticity to restore lost brain functions. Stimulate the brain – and it may do amazing things to heal.

Here are three stories, out of many: Susan Klein (Age 73): Two years after a stroke, she was primarily in a wheelchair. Through persistent physical therapy, she defied odds by regaining the ability to walk and dance by her 73rd birthday.

Stacie Broek (Age 46): After a severe stroke while living in Japan, she utilized speech and physical therapy to recover her cognitive and physical abilities, going on to take up long-distance trail running.

Michael Johnson: The Olympic gold medalist sprinter suffered a stroke in 2018. He applied his athlete’s mindset to intensive rehab, regaining full mobility.

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)