Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)
What is tDCS?
Trans-Cranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a type of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation (NIBS) therapy that uses a small electric current to stimulate the brain. During treatment, people sit comfortably whilst small sponge electrodes are positioned over targeted areas of the brain. The electrodes are held in place using soft straps and deliver a low-intensity direct electric current to the underlying brain. Treatment is safe, with most people simply feeling a mild “tingling” or “itching” sensation during the session. People will sometimes perform specific activities or exercises after each treatment session
Who can benefit from tDCS?
Research indicates that tDCS is an effective treatment for depression and is probably effective for a range of other conditions including addiction, chronic pain, epilepsy, fibromyalgia, migraine, stroke, post-operative acute pain and schizophrenia (auditory hallucinations). Additional studies indicate that it may also be helpful in the treatment of conditions such as acquired brain injury, Alzheimer’s and dementia, Autism, cerebellar disorders, memory problems, movements disorders (eg. Parkinson’s), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), speech problems, and tinnitus however there is less published research about this.
