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Neuroplasticity and its Role on Recovery After Stroke
Neuroplasticity, the brain's remarkable ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, plays a critical role in recovery after stroke. When a stroke occurs, blood flow to parts of the brain is interrupted, causing cell death and impairing function in affected areas. Neuroplasticity facilitates recovery by allowing other parts of the brain to take over the functions lost due to the stroke. This process is driven by the brain's inherent capacity to adapt through mechanisms such as synaptic plasticity, where synapses strengthen or weaken over time, and structural plasticity, involving the growth of new neurons and the reorganization of neural networks. Rehabilitation therapies, such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy, leverage neuroplasticity by providing repetitive, task-specific practice that encourages the brain to rewire itself. Advanced techniques like constraint-induced movement therapy, mirror therapy, and non-invasive brain stimulation further enhance neuroplasticity by promoting activity in the affected regions. The timing and intensity of these interventions are crucial, as the brain is most malleable in the early stages following a stroke. However, neuroplasticity can continue to support recovery even months or years after the initial event. Factors influencing the extent of neuroplastic changes include the severity of the stroke, the individual's age, overall health, and engagement in rehabilitation. Ultimately, neuroplasticity is a foundational concept in stroke recovery, providing a pathway for regaining lost functions and improving quality of life through targeted, adaptive interventions.
About the Speaker
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Dr. Dharam P. Pandey
Director & HOD, Department of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Sciences, Manipal Hospitals, Delhi
Dr. Dharam P. Pandey, the Director and Head of the Department of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Sciences at Manipal Hospitals, Dwarka, Delhi, is a distinguished clinician, researcher, and academic leader with over two decades of experience. His exceptional qualifications include a Ph.D. in Neurological Physiotherapy and advanced certifications from esteemed institutions worldwide in Osteopathy, Neuro-Developmental Treatment, Spinal Structural Balance, and more. Dr. Pandey's pioneering research in AI-powered and frequency-tuned electromagnetic field therapies has significantly advanced non-invasive rehabilitation techniques, earning him recognition in top-tier journals like Frontiers in Neurology and Brain Stimulation. As a dedicated educator, he contributes to academia through roles as a visiting professor, external examiner, and editorial board member. His contributions to neurorehabilitation, particularly in stroke and spinal cord injury recovery, have garnered numerous accolades, including the Best Researcher Award and the Physio Ratan Award. Dr. Pandey's influence extends globally, making him a sought-after speaker at international conferences and a prominent figure in the physiotherapy and rehabilitation sciences community.
Upcoming Case Discussions
Anaphylaxis In Emergency Department
A dangerous systemic hypersensitivity reaction with a typically quick onset that can be fatal is anaphylaxis. Rapid onset of breathing, circulation,and/or airway issues are its defining characteristics. The most crucial treatment is intramuscular adrenaline, although many patients do not receive it even in medical facilities, despite recommendations to the contrary. The significance of positioning during the management of anaphylaxis and the necessity of avoiding activities that could postpone the timely and proper delivery of adrenaline. Antihistamines should only be used as a last resort when ABC characteristics have been successfully treated in order to lessen skin involvement.
Clinician’s Approach to Hypertensive Nephropathy
Many processes influence the management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and lead to the development of hypertension in the disease. Increased sympathetic tone in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a result of afferent signals produced by functionally failing kidneys. The great majority of CKD patients suffer from hypertension, which can both cause and result from the disease. In people with CKD, controlling hypertension is crucial since it lowers the risk of CVD and slows the disease's course. There is no agreement on the ideal blood pressure (BP) targets provided by current guidelines. Consequently, when deciding how to care specific patients.
Circulatory Shock In Trauma
The inability of the circulatory system to supply tissue oxygenation and organ perfusion necessary to meet cellular metabolic demands is known as shock. Although non-haemorrhagic shock, such as cardiogenic or neurogenic shock, can occur after trauma, hemorrhage is more frequently linked to trauma-related shock. Evidence gathered over the past ten years has shown that trauma patients suffer from acute traumatic coagulopathy (ATC), which is brought on by the actual process of injury. Damage control resuscitation (DCR), the current method for managing acute shock, was developed with this as a key component. Haemostatic resuscitation, which uses blood products as the main resuscitative fluid, permissive hypotension, and damage control surgery are the three main resuscitative techniques included in DCR.
Fertilization & Early Development
Fertilization occurs when a sperm cell merges with an egg cell, creating a zygote, which is the first stage of a new life. This process takes place in the fallopian tube. The zygote then undergoes rapid cell division, known as cleavage, forming a multi-cellular structure called a blastocyst. As the blastocyst moves toward the uterus, it continues to divide and develop. Approximately 5-7 days after fertilization, the blastocyst implants itself into the uterine lining, initiating pregnancy. Early development involves the formation of the foundational structures and systems that will shape the embryo.
Metabolic Syndrome and Heart Health
Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. These conditions include high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. When these risk factors occur together, they amplify the risk of developing cardiovascular issues. Metabolic syndrome is closely linked to insulin resistance, where the body struggles to use insulin effectively. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management, are crucial in managing the syndrome. Early intervention is essential to prevent the progression to heart disease and other complications.