What is Transcranial Electrical Stimulation? TES
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)?
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), is a non-invasive, painless brain stimulation treatment that uses direct electrical currents to stimulate specific parts of the brain.
The therapy works by delivering a low-intensity electrical current to the part of the brain responsible for abnormal pain sensation. This constant, low-intensity current is passed through two electrodes placed over the head which modulates neuronal activity.
The treatment is not surgical and drug-free.
There are two types of stimulation with tDCS: anodal and cathodal stimulation. Anodal stimulation acts to excite neuronal activity while cathodal stimulation inhibits or reduces neuronal activity.
Is Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) Effective?
Recent studies support the therapeutic potential of tDCS in patients with:
- Ataxia
- ADHD
- Autism
- Epilepsy
- COVID - Related Fatigue
- Fibromyalgia
- Brain injury
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Disorders of Consciousness
- Dyslexia
- Spasticity
- Cerebral Palsy
In adults, it has been used for Parkinson’s disease, stroke recovery, traumatic spinal cord injury, depression, and other illnesses.
Similar but different therapies include: TACS (alternating current)
TES treatments are complementary - that is, they are used after standard therapies have failed.
We use an FDA-approved device for this off-label use. tDCS devices have not been approved by the FDA for this application.
Although tDCS is still an evolving form of brain stimulation, it has several advantages over other brain stimulation techniques.
It is economical, non-invasive, minimally uncomfortable, and safe.
Call our office to learn more.
