tDCS (Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation)

---

tDCS, or transcranial direct current stimulation, is a non-invasive and painless brain neuromodulation technique that applies a low-intensity galvanic current to the scalp (transcranial) to stimulate specific areas of the brain.

The use of tDCS has significant scientific evidence, originally stemming from the fields of psychiatry and psychology. In recent years, it has gained recognition as an applicable technique in the physiotherapy sector, with substantial evidence in the areas of pain and motor disorders.

Among the benefits of tDCS, or transcranial direct current stimulation, are the reduction of medication usage and faster recovery times. It has also been shown to enhance the effects of other clinical techniques, such as percutaneous electrolysis, percutaneous neuromodulation, and therapeutic exercise, among others, when applied in combination.

Application of the technique

The application of tDCS is straightforward. Electrodes are placed on a specific area of the skull, depending on the cortical areas to be stimulated in each case, through which the current is transmitted to the patient.

There are different protocols for applying the tDCS technique. Based strictly on scientific evidence, we adjust the current flow to be administered and the area of the skull where the electrodes will be placed, depending on the type of pathology being treated.

With tDCS, we can specifically target the area of the brain we wish to treat, enabling us to address pathologies across different medical specialties.

Transcranial electrical stimulation is a revolutionary technique that positions non-invasive brain neuromodulation as a primary treatment before considering more invasive options, and it is a perfect therapeutic complement for patients with chronic conditions resistant to conventional treatments.

Effects of tDCS on Patients

tDCS treatment generates a change in the membrane potential of cortical neurons, either increasing or decreasing this potential depending on the anodal or cathodal effects of the electrodes.

- Anodal stimulation will increase cortical excitability.

- Cathodal stimulation will decrease cortical excitability (inhibition).

Transcranial stimulation has the ability to promote neuronal plasticity in patients, meaning it allows neurons to regenerate both anatomically and functionally, forming new synaptic connections.

Benefits of the tDCS Technique

- Accelerates recovery times.

- Has an analgesic effect and helps reduce medication use in treatments such as fibromyalgia and chronic pain.

- It is a painless technique with minimal side effects.

- tDCS is non-invasive, as it is applied transcutaneously.

- The application of transcranial stimulation can be combined with other therapeutic techniques, helping to improve their results.

- Patients do not require prior preparation before the treatment.

Conditions That Can Be Treated

Today, the tDCS technique is a highly effective therapeutic tool for treating conditions in various medical fields.

These fields include:

- Chronic pain

- Fibromyalgia

- Migraines

- Motor rehabilitation after stroke

- Parkinson's disease

- Depression

- Anxiety

- Addictions

- Attention deficit disorders

Consult Us About Your Specific Case

The typical application of the technique involves 10 sessions over a period of 2 to 3 weeks, with each session lasting 20 minutes. The technique can be combined with other therapies to further enhance its effects.