Enhancing Dyslexia Support: Harnessing Neuroplasticity for Better Outcomes

October 17, 2024

In this article

Dyslexia, affecting approximately 10% of the population, presents challenges in reading, writing, and language processing.

Traditional dyslexia support has focused on improving specific skills, but with growing insights into brain function, new avenues for support are emerging. Neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganise itself—plays a pivotal role in this innovative approach.

By understanding and harnessing neuroplasticity, therapies can more effectively address the unique neurological patterns associated with dyslexia, enhancing support and outcomes.

Understanding Dyslexia and the Brain

Dyslexia is not simply a learning difficulty; it’s a neurological condition.

Functional brain scans have shown that individuals with dyslexia tend to rely more on the right hemisphere for language processing, as opposed to the left hemisphere, which is typically more active in fluent readers. This variation affects areas such as visual perception, phonological processing, and working memory, making reading and writing more challenging.^[2]

The ability of the brain to change and adapt can be crucial in helping individuals with dyslexia to “build the underlying cognitive skills needed for reading and writing” through targeted exercises that stimulate different brain areas^[1].

The Role of Neuroplasticity in Dyslexia Support

Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections.

This is particularly valuable for individuals with dyslexia, as targeted interventions can improve areas of difficulty by encouraging the development of new skills through consistent practice.

According to Gemm Learning, engaging in activities that simultaneously stimulate the auditory and visual systems can improve the brain’s connectivity, helping individuals to read more fluently by “increasing the communication between different brain regions.”^[3]

For individuals with dyslexia, neuroplasticity-based interventions aim to:

Rewire the Brain: Strengthening the connections between brain regions involved in language processing.
Support Visual-Auditory Integration: Enhancing the brain’s ability to process and integrate sensory information, a common challenge in dyslexia.
Improve Cognitive Flexibility: Developing new neural pathways, which helps build essential language and reading skills.

Effective Strategies for Dyslexia Support Through Neuroplasticity

Visual-Auditory Integration Exercises: Visual perception and auditory processing are critical for reading comprehension. Exercises that require the integration of these senses, such as following along with audio books or using software that highlights words as they are spoken, reinforce the connections between what is seen and what is heard. According to the End Dyslexia website, “multi-sensory activities activate both hemispheres of the brain,” which is essential for developing reading fluency.^[2]
Co-Activation Techniques: Neurofit Brain Centre uses co-activation techniques to stimulate various parts of the brain simultaneously, which promotes stronger neural pathways and improves overall function. Co-activation might include activities like tapping in rhythm while reading aloud. These exercises encourage brain balance by involving both hemispheres, which can help with the visual perception difficulties that dyslexic individuals often face.
Multi-Sensory Learning Approaches: Multi-sensory learning strategies have proven highly effective for individuals with dyslexia. By involving touch, sight, sound, and movement, these exercises activate multiple areas of the brain at once, which can help to build stronger, more efficient neural connections. For example, tracing letters in sand while vocalising the sounds is a common activity that combines tactile and auditory senses. This “combination of sensory inputs strengthens language processing areas,” according to Arrowsmith, enabling the individual to connect letters and sounds more effectively.^[1]
Targeted Brain Training Exercises: Training exercises that focus on memory, sequencing, and phonological awareness are foundational to improving reading skills. Games that emphasise memory, such as card-matching or visual puzzles, encourage cognitive flexibility and strengthen areas in the brain that support language skills. This approach aligns with the principles highlighted by Gemm Learning, which states that “consistent practice with brain training games creates new neural pathways,” helping those with dyslexia to develop better reading fluency and comprehension.^[3]

Additional Therapies and Their Impact on Dyslexia

Beyond traditional methods, other therapies can complement dyslexia support by modulating sensory input and improving information processing speed.

For instance, auditory processing therapy targets how the brain interprets sounds, an area often impaired in dyslexia. According to End Dyslexia, “enhanced auditory processing can lead to better reading outcomes,” especially when combined with other neuroplasticity-based interventions.

Light therapy, another non-invasive option, is noted for its potential in adjusting sensory processing by calming overactive areas of the brain.^[1]

How Neurofit Brain Centre Supports Individuals with Dyslexia

At Neurofit Brain Centre, we specialise in functional neurology-based therapies grounded in the science of neuroplasticity.

We begin with an in-depth assessment to understand each client’s unique brain function profile and tailor a program designed to meet their specific needs. This process includes multi-sensory exercises, co-activation strategies, and brain training activities, creating a supportive environment that feels more like play than traditional therapy.

Our innovative approach involves using arcade-style activities that allow clients to engage in enjoyable, evidence-based therapies designed to retrain their brains. By using neuroplasticity-driven therapies, we aim to create lasting improvements in literacy and cognitive function.

For those seeking a dynamic, non-clinical environment to manage dyslexia, our centre provides a fresh approach to dyslexia support, reinforced with measurable progress and outcomes.

Conclusion

Harnessing neuroplasticity offers new hope for individuals with dyslexia. By targeting brain function directly and reinforcing new neural pathways, dyslexia support can lead to significant improvements in language and literacy skills.

At Neurofit Brain Centre, we are committed to helping individuals unlock their potential through neuroplasticity-based therapies.

To start your journey towards better reading skills and greater confidence, please book an assessment today.

Disclaimer

All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Neurofit Brain Centre can consult with you to confirm if a particular treatment approach is right for you.