Physiology · Nervous System · Hard

Neuroplasticity

Meaning: The brain's ability to reorganise neural pathways in response to experience, learning, or injury.

In practice: Neuroplasticity allows stroke patients to recover function through physiotherapy.

Word parts

Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.

Two questions on related physiology words.

Which word means: A physiological faculty by which the body detects and responds to internal or external stimuli.

Which word means: The continuous partial contraction of a resting muscle that maintains readiness.

One medical word a day, then a quick three-question quiz. Free on iPhone, or play in your browser on Android and computer.