STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL CHANGES IN FOCAL BRAIN LESIONS IN STROKE PATIENTS AND THEIR ROLE IN NEUROREHABILITATION
Тhe concept of ischemic penumbra, neuroplasticity, of a unified regulatory metasistem, the theory of functional systems that are important in understanding of structural and functional changes at diff erent levels of the human body caused by stroke are discussed in the article. Particular attention is paid to the role of neural tissue's plasticity in recovery of damaged brain functions. Changes in neuroplasticity at macro- and microlevels and their role in formation of pathological systems are considered. Th e importance of elimination or inhibition of pathological systems which cause formation of persistent neurological syndromes is emphasized as the strategy of stroke patient rehabilitation therapy. The demand for early rehabilitation activities preventing development of muscular hypertension and pathological pos tural reflexes that lead to contractures, pain and loss of functional abilities is actualized. Architectonics of the functional system with its useful result being a system-forming factor is described. It is stated that the theory of functional systems puts a priority on the systemic organization of human body functions, and that recovery of impaired functions requires a systemic multidisciplinary approach to stroke patient rehabilitation.