Article

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) cause both structural and
functional brain changes that may be associated with significant sensorimotor
abnormalities and pain.
The aim of this narrative review is
to provide hand therapists an overview of PNI-induced neuroplasticity and to
explain how the brain changes following PNI, repair, and during rehabilitation.
METHODS: Toward this goal, we review key aspects of neuroplasticity and
neuroimaging and discuss sensory testing techniques used to study neuroplasticity
in PNI patients. RESULTS: We describe the specific brain changes that occur
during the repair and recovery process of both traumatic (eg, transection) and
nontraumatic (eg, compression) nerve injuries. We also explain how these changes
contribute to common symptoms including hypoesthesia, hyperalgesia, cold
sensitivity, and chronic neurogenic pain. In addition, we describe how
maladaptive neuroplasticity as well as psychological and personality
characteristics impacts treatment outcome. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Greater
understanding of the brain's contribution to symptoms in recovering PNI patients
could help guide rehabilitation strategies and inform the development of novel
techniques to counteract these maladaptive brain changes and ultimately improve
outcomes.
CI - Copyright (c) 2018 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights
reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS