The Brain That Changes Itself

Doidge describes how experience and practice can change brain function, challenging the idea of an entirely fixed adult brain.

Neuroplasticity means that experience can alter connections and patterns of brain activity.

Repeated activity can strengthen a skill, while unused abilities may become harder to access.

The book follows people and researchers exploring adaptation after injury or difficulty.

Patterns can become persistent problems as well as useful skills.

A striking recovery does not show that every condition can be reversed.

Case histories need to be read alongside the limits of the particular methods and people involved.