Rewiring Recovery: Neuroplasticity's Role in Stroke Rehabilitation

Abstract

Neuroplasticity, the brain's capacity to reorganize neural networks, plays a fundamental role in stroke recovery through multiple mechanisms spanning cellular to network levels. This narrative review synthesizes current understanding of neuroplastic processes in stroke rehabilitation, examining both spontaneous and intervention-induced neural reorganization. We explore how the brain adapts through synaptic modifications, dendritic sprouting, and cortical remapping, particularly in perilesional areas and the contralesional hemisphere. The review evaluates evidence based therapeutic approaches that harness neuroplasticity, including physical rehabilitation, neurostimulation techniques, and emerging technological interventions. We examine critical factors influencing recovery outcomes, such as intervention timing, genetic variations, and environmental conditions. The integration of advanced neuroimaging, pharmacological enhancement, and personalized rehabilitation strategies emerges as a promising direction for optimizing stroke recovery. While significant progress has been made, challenges remain in making these interventions globally accessible, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Keywords: Neuroplasticity; Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy; Neurostimulation; Brain Computer Interfaces; Cortical Remapping; Synaptic Plasticity

Citation

Rahul Garg. Rewiring Recovery: Neuroplasticity's Role in Stroke Rehabilitation. WebLog J Cerebrovasc Dis Stroke. wjcds.2026.f1702. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21312145