Electrical stimulation system, lead, and method providing modified reduced neuroplasticity effect

A method for effecting neuroplasticity in brain tissue of a patient using neurostimulation, comprising:

• receiving a selection of a first electrode, by a programming device, for stimulation of a first location associated with brain tissue of the patient, wherein a neuronal function previously occurred at the first location before impairment of the neuronal function;
• receiving a selection of a second electrode, by the programming device, for stimulation of a second location associated with brain tissue of the patient, wherein the second location is a location that is capable of at least partially assuming performance of the neuronal function;
• programming, by the programming device, an implantable pulse generator (IPG) to operate according to programmable parameters, the programmable parameters including parameters defining stimulation pulses to be applied via the second electrode that encourage subsequent performance of the neuronal function at the second location by promoting neuroplasticity;
• and
• activating the IPG to stimulate the first and second locations according to the programmable parameters.