The powers of a neuroplastic brain
A friend talking about the news of a woman whose vestibular apparatus (organ responsible for her balance system) stopped working, a 65 year old man had a stroke that paralyzed his face and half his body, or a girl who’s born with only half her brain. The typical immediate reaction may be sorrow for the assumed irreversible impairment, however, this novel will invoke such inspiration in the reader that afterwards their perspective on these situations may become completely different. With the proper guidance and specific skill targeting activities, the information-craving organ will respond as if it has an unlimited potential for change.
The Brain That Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science by Norman Doidge, a scientist, medical doctor, and psychoanalyst currently a part of the faculty of more than one prestigious University, has compiled a series of case studies and personal discussions with incredible neuroscience researchers to take the readers through the journey in the recent decades of our understanding of our own brains; what struggles were faced and what outcomes were achieved from the knowledge on the revolutionary but fundamental topic of neuroplasticity.
The author does an excellent job of explaining any neuroscience topics that are discussed in case studies like the process of LTP, BDNF, sensitization, roles of various lobes, sensory and motor maps that the reader does not actually need any previous knowledge of these topics. There are plenty of quotations not only from discussions with the researchers themselves- who talked about their experiences while discovering neuroplasticity- but also from some of the patients and their families experiencing the results of neuroplasticity.
Each chapter focuses on a different researcher or different case study and describes, in great detail, how each of them from various angles have impacted and proven the significance and existence of neuroplasticity; ranging from how a device on the tongue can be used to reteach the brain balance to relieving an itch in an amputated hand by stroking the cheek.
Growing up in the era where it is common knowledge that neuroplasticity is a fundamental part of the brain, I can recall in previous neuroscience courses my professors excitedly speaking of how in their times they believed the brain was hardwired and how much we’ve progressed to have discovered neuroplasticity. It wasn’t until I read this novel had I truly grasped what an incredible jump this was for neuroscience to make. I have a strengthened admiration for these neuroscientists- not only their ingenious discoveries, but also their bravery and struggle when having to constantly fight the strong held belief of a hardwired brain in the scientific community.
I would recommend this book to absolutely everyone of all ages. Society teaches about the food pyramid to maintain proper nutrition, and exercises to keep the muscles functioning smoothly, however because the brain cannot be perceived the way muscular development/deterioration can be seen in a mirror, we tend to neglect it. This novel outlines just how significant it is to do things for your brain, to challenge it with new skills, to break repetitive lifestyles in order to keep parts of your brain active.
The novel does not only give examples of how neuroplasticity helps those who have had accidents but also how it helps with normal processes such as ageing. The novel goes into great detail about critical periods in children’s growth and shows us how people can keep their brains active after their sixties as well. It seems there is a constant message throughout the novel which is best summed up by Christine at the Taub clinic who helped an elementary teacher, Nicole, undergo constraint-induced therapy (after radiation had damaged her brain), the first step is you’re not allowed to use “the four-letter word” – “can’t.”
This novel is rated with a 4.2 out of 5 on Goodreads, with a documentary produced of it in the following year that rated 9/10 on the Top Documentary Films website. I believe this is the minimum knowledge that every individual should have about their brain. In the end, each individual is responsible for what input is put into the brain and how active they keep their brains. In the case of phantom limbs it’s possible to even “trick” the brain. This novel will leave readers fascinated, inspired and enlightened. While the brain has the capability to change itself due to its neuroplasticity, it is up to the individual to decide through their experiences in life and the skills they develop how they will mold, challenge and guide their unique changing brain.
By Rima El-Sayed
Please note that opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views and values of The Blank Page.
