Abstract
The rate, duration and the predictability of natural recovery, the effect of therapy, and major contributory factors are reviewed, with special emphasis on aphasia. The most likely mechanism of second-stage recovery is physiological and functional substitution by connected areas in the brain. Recovery from aphasia shows a predictable time course. Aphasia type overlaps severity to a great extent and language components depend on the test method and patient selection. Comprehension probably recovers better than other modalities. The pattern of evolution of aphasic syndromes and an overall prognostic guide are presented.