Neural Plasticity in Adult Somatic Sensory-Motor Systems

Synthesizing current information about sensory-motor plasticity, Neural Plasticity in Adult Somatic Sensory-Motor Systems provides an up-to-date description of the dynamic processes that occur in somatic sensory-motor cortical circuits or somatic sensory pathways to the cortex due to experience, learning, or damage to the nervous system. The book emphasizes changes in the cortex that are linked to shifts in movement or behavior and demonstrates the potential for direct brain-based interventions to improve the quality of life for people with sensory-motor disabilities. Following initial chapters that cover issues relevant to modifications in sensory processing, the text deals with the motor side of sensory-motor transformations, and includes studies that document the dynamic changes in system properties that occur with normal experience or in recovery from brain damage. Edited by a recognized world authority on neural plasticity, this book provides important insight into the mechanisms of neural plasticity. It is an essential link to understanding the dynamics of learning in the hopes of improving perceptual and motor skills after brain damage.