Lower Motor Neuron Lesion versus Upper Motor Lesion

In physical rehabilitation, it is often the case that intensive effort is applied to exploit the natural ability of the body to adapt to the consequences of injury. This property, known as neuroplasticity is not yet fully understood but it at least represents hope that some functional recovery is possible in many cases. In many cases there will remain a functional deficit and ultimately we find ways to compensate for function that cannot be recovered.

The nervous system is a very complex, adaptable structure, that can be disrupted by illness or injury. Rehabilitation strategies to apply in a particular case obviously depend on the nature and extent of injury.

Clinicians might refer to an "upper motor" or "lower motor" lesion when discussing a particular case. What do these terms mean? In this article we review the meaning of these statements and the consequences for rehabilitation. Some of our electrical stimulation products relate to problems with the nervous system and may help to restore or compensate for loss of function following injury or illness. Which products are relevant to these types of lesions?

Let's start by reviewing some aspects of the nervous system.