Right brain structures may hold clue to language recovery after stroke

Scientists may be able to predict who is more likely to recover from language problems following a stroke by examining structures in the right hemisphere of the brain, according to research published in Neurology.

The brain is divided into two hemispheres, the right and the left. In most people, the left side dominates in language and speech-motor functions. If the left side of the brain is damaged by stroke, aphasia can result.

Aphasia can cause problems with speaking, naming, repeating and understanding language. Many people recover some of these faculties, but for many, even intense speech therapy does not lead to a full recovery. Previous studies have shown that levels of injury to gray and white matter in structures in the left side of the brain can predict the potential for recovery