Journal of Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Research

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.

Short Communication - Journal of Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Research (2025) Volume 10, Issue 4

Integrative Approaches to Motor and Cognitive Recovery After Severe Traumatic Brain Injury

Maria Gonzalez*

Department of Neurophysiology, University of Buenos Aires, Argentina.

*Corresponding Author:
Maria Gonzalez
Department of Neurophysiology
University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
E-mail: m.gonzalez@uba.ar

Received: 03-Oct-2025, Manuscript No. JNNR-25-171946; Editor assigned: 04-Oct-2025, PreQC No. JNNR-25-1719465(PQ); Reviewed: 18-Oct-2025, QC No JNNR-25-1719465; Revised: 21-Oct-2025, Manuscript No. JNNR-25-1719465(R); Published: 28-Oct-2025, DOI:10.35841/ aajnnr -10.4.274

Citation: Gonzalez M. Integrative approaches to motor and cognitive recovery after severe traumatic brain injury. J Neurol Neurorehab Res. 2025;10(4):274.

Introduction

Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) frequently results in a combination of motor, cognitive, and behavioral deficits, which profoundly impact independence and quality of life. The extent of neurological impairment varies based on injury location, severity, and individual patient factors. Rehabilitation strategies targeting both motor and cognitive domains are essential to optimize recovery. By combining structured physical therapy, cognitive exercises, and neuromodulatory techniques, clinicians aim to promote neuroplasticity and functional reorganization, facilitating reintegration of neural networks affected by the injury [1].

Motor recovery after TBI relies on the reactivation and strengthening of residual corticospinal pathways. Task-specific repetitive training, robotic-assisted therapy, and constraint-induced movement therapy encourage synaptic potentiation and cortical map reorganization. These interventions enhance voluntary movement and coordination while preventing maladaptive motor patterns. Electrophysiological studies demonstrate that repeated activation of motor networks promotes recruitment of alternate pathways and functional compensation, which is critical for patients with extensive primary cortical damage [2].

Cognitive rehabilitation complements motor interventions by targeting attention, memory, executive function, and problem-solving abilities. Cognitive training exercises, computerized platforms, and virtual reality–based tasks stimulate prefrontal and parietal networks, reinforcing synaptic connections and promoting adaptive network reorganization. Integration of cognitive and motor rehabilitation is particularly effective, as simultaneous engagement of multiple domains enhances overall neural plasticity, accelerates functional gains, and supports daily life activities that require coordinated motor-cognitive processing [3].

Adjunctive techniques, including non-invasive brain stimulation (e.g., tDCS, rTMS) and pharmacological modulation, further enhance recovery. Neuromodulatory approaches increase cortical excitability in underactive networks, amplifying the effects of rehabilitative exercises. Pharmacological agents targeting neurotransmitter systems involved in learning, attention, and motor control may potentiate synaptic plasticity and improve responsiveness to therapy. Multimodal approaches that combine these interventions with conventional rehabilitation hold the greatest promise for optimizing long-term outcomes in severe TBI patients [4].

Challenges in rehabilitation remain, including heterogeneity of injuries, patient motivation, and long-term adherence. Personalized therapy plans based on neuroimaging and electrophysiological assessments can identify responsive networks and guide intervention intensity and progression. Interdisciplinary collaboration among neurologists, therapists, neurophysiologists, and psychologists is crucial to delivering integrated care. Continued research into neuroplastic mechanisms and innovative rehabilitation technologies will inform best practices and maximize functional recovery for TBI survivors [5].

Conclusion

Integrative rehabilitation approaches that address both motor and cognitive deficits after severe TBI promote adaptive neural reorganization and functional recovery. By combining structured training, neuromodulation, and pharmacological support, personalized rehabilitation plans can optimize outcomes, enhance independence, and improve quality of life for affected individuals.

References

  1. Fauroux B, Griffon L, Amaddeo A, et al. Respiratory management of children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Arch Pediatr. 2020;27(7):7S29-34.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. Day JW, Howell K, Place A, et al. Advances and limitations for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy. BMC Pediatr. 2022;22(1):632.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  3. Nishio H, Niba ET, Saito T, et al. Spinal muscular atrophy: the past, present, and future of diagnosis and treatment. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(15):11939.

    4. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  4. Keinath MC, Prior DE, Prior TW. Spinal muscular atrophy: mutations, testing, and clinical relevance. Appl Clin Genet. 2021:11-25.

    5. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Rad N, Cai H, Weiss MD. Management of spinal muscular atrophy in the adult population. Muscle Nerve. 2022;65(5):498-507.

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

Get the App