THERAPEUTIC EXERCISE-INDUCED NEUROPLASTICITY IN MOTOR RECOVERY AFTER STROKE

Abstract

Stroke is a major cause of disability and is frequently associated with motor impairments that limit mobility, functional independence, and the performance of activities of daily living. In this context, neuroplasticity represents an essential mechanism for recovery, enabling structural and functional adaptations of the nervous system in response to injury and therapeutic stimuli. This study aimed to analyze the influence of therapeutic exercise on the neuroplasticity mechanisms involved in motor recovery in individuals after stroke. This is a descriptive narrative literature review conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, LILACS, and PEDro databases, with descriptors related to stroke, neuroplasticity, therapeutic exercise, rehabilitation, and motor recovery. Nine articles published between 2014 and 2023 in Portuguese and English were selected. The findings were organized into three thematic areas: neuroplasticity and motor recovery; therapeutic exercise as a stimulus for neuroplasticity; and the effects of exercise on post-stroke motor recovery. The studies demonstrated that repetitive, targeted motor practice adapted to individual needs may promote neural reorganization, motor learning, and functional improvements. Benefits were also observed in muscle strength, balance, gait, mobility, upper limb function, and independence in daily activities. It is concluded that therapeutic exercise represents an important strategy for stimulating neuroplastic mechanisms and promoting motor recovery after stroke. However, the heterogeneity of the protocols highlights the need for further studies to define parameters regarding the intensity, frequency, duration, and type of interventions and to guide more individualized, safe, and effective therapeutic prescriptions.