Brainpaths Neural Networking

Researchers are unsure whether rewiring results from new connections or strengthening of existing connections. Scientists are, however, sure that the adult brain does, to some extent, rewire itself. This finding helps explain how learning occurs and may lead to ways of improving recovery from learning disabilities, stroke, and other brain disorders through special "brain exercises". One example given to develop new connections between brain neurons was learning to read Braille.
(Brain Briefings, brain reorganization, Leah Ariniello, Science Writer, Society for Neuroscience, Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 500, Washington D.C., 20036).
“Simple finger movement can change the size of the area of motor cortex that controls specific finger muscles, and even alter its neural connections. In blind Braille readers, the cortical area for the reading finger is much larger than for a non-reading finger.