Oxidative Stress and Renal Function Decline in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study from Samarra General Hospital

Abstract

Background: Stroke remains a leading cause of death and long-term disability globally, with traditional rehabilitation approaches primarily focusing on compensatory strategies rather than neural repair mechanisms.

Objective: This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on neuroplasticity mechanisms underlying stroke recovery and evaluates therapeutic interventions that harness the brain's reorganization capacity to improve functional outcomes.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for English-language studies published between 2000 and April 2023. Search terms included "stroke rehabilitation," "neuroplasticity," "motor recovery," and specific interventions.

Results: Key neuroplastic mechanisms—including synaptic plasticity, dendritic remodeling, cortical reorganization, neurogenesis, and axonal sprouting—underlie both spontaneous and therapy-induced recovery. Evidence-based interventions leveraging these mechanisms include constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT), physical exercise, non-invasive brain stimulation, virtual reality training, brain-computer interfaces, and emerging cell-based therapies. Recovery outcomes are significantly influenced by individual factors (age, genetics, stroke characteristics) and contextual factors (rehabilitation timing, intensity, resource availability).

Conclusions: Neuroplasticity-based rehabilitation represents a paradigm shift from compensatory to restorative approaches. Future directions emphasize early, intensive, personalized interventions combining behavioral, neuromodulatory, and pharmacological strategies to optimize functional recovery and quality of life for stroke survivors.