Neurological injury (e.g., stroke, head injury) often leads to deficits in multiple domains (e.g., cognitive, physical, sensory) and yet rehabilitation approaches are typically discipline-specific, losing the opportunity to provide a more comprehensive approach. In addition, cognitive deficits in individuals ...
Neurological injury (e.g., stroke, head injury) often leads to deficits in multiple domains (e.g., cognitive, physical, sensory) and yet rehabilitation approaches are typically discipline-specific, losing the opportunity to provide a more comprehensive approach. In addition, cognitive deficits in individuals with neurological conditions are often multifaceted and interrelated, affecting one or more domains, such as memory, language, perception, to name a few examples. Rehabilitation approaches for individuals with brain injury rely on experience-dependent neuroplasticity, and neuroplasticity and recovery are enhanced in enriched environments. Recently, combined, multi-component intervention approaches have shown promise in achieving successful rehabilitation outcomes. Some examples include interventions combining: cognitive and physical exercises; multiple cognitive approaches, such as language and memory interventions; cognitive and/or motor approaches with electrical stimulation. While much needs to be better understood regarding the underlying mechanisms of recovery with these combined interventions, such approaches acknowledge the complexity of functional recovery and represent exciting avenues for new interventions, successful outcomes and mechanistic discoveries.
The focus of this Research Topic is to advance our understanding of recovery and neuroplasticity in individuals with neurological deficits due to acquired brain disorders, including neurodegenerative conditions. Studies focused on improving rehabilitation outcomes with combined interventions are welcome. Those with a strong premise are preferred. Studies employing quantitative or qualitative designs, as well as single-subject and/or case studies will be considered.
Possible multi-component interventions include, but are not limited to:
• Interventions that address more than one cognitive domain (e.g., language and working memory)
• Interventions that address cognitive and motor abilities
• Interventions that address cognitive abilities combined with physical exercise
• Interventions that address cognitive and perceptual abilities
• Interventions that address motor abilities combined with electrical stimulation
• Interventions that address cognitive or motor abilities combined with pharmacological treatments
• Interventions of theoretically specified enriched environments during in-patient rehabilitation
Important Note:
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