Para-Sports can Promote Functional Reorganization in the Ipsilateral Primary Motor Cortex of Lower Limbs Amputee

Phantom limb syndrome: from pathogenesis to treatment. A narrative review

Phantom Limb Syndrome (PLS) can be defined as the disabling or painful sensation of the presence of a body part that is no longer present after its amputation. Anatomical changes involved in Phantom Limb Syndrome, occurring at peripheral, spinal and brain levels and include the formation of neuromas and scars, dorsal horn sensitization and plasticity, short-term and long-term modifications at molecular and topographical levels. The molecular reorganization processes of Phantom Limb Syndrome include NMDA receptors hyperactivation in the dorsal horn of the spinal column leading to inflammatory mechanisms both at a peripheral and central level. At the brain level, a central role has been recognized for sodium channels, BDNF and adenosine triphosphate receptors. In the paper we discuss current available pharmacological options with a final overview on non-pharmacological options in the pipeline.

Brain Reorganization and Neural Plasticity in Elite Athletes With Physical Impairments

Use-dependent and impairment-specific brain plasticity are hypothesized to interact and enhance neural reorganization in the central nervous system (CNS) of athletes with physical impairments. Paralympic brain studies are helpful in achieving a fundamental understanding of the underlying neural mechanism related to CNS reorganization after physical therapy or athletic training. Information learned from these individuals also provides new insights into sports- and rehabilitation-related neuroscience.