CONTINUOUS CURRENT TRANSCRANIAN STIMULATION (tDCS)
A non-invasive neuromodulatory therapy that uses low-intensity electric current to modulate brain activity, offering effective treatment for various neurological and psychiatric disorders with minimal side effects.
tDCS involves applying electrodes to the scalp, connected to a device that generates a gentle and constant electric current. This current modulates the excitability of neurons in the target brain area, promoting neuroplasticity and helping to recover compromised functions or relieve symptoms.
It is a safe, painless procedure that is well tolerated by the vast majority of patients. The sessions are typically short (20-30 minutes) and carried out in a clinical setting, allowing the patient to return to their normal activities immediately after treatment. Personalising the protocol is key to its effectiveness.
TREATABLE CONDITIONS
tDCS has shown significant efficacy in the treatment of depression, especially in medication-resistant cases. Protocols involving stimulation of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex have shown impressive clinical results, with cumulative effects over the course of treatment sessions.
Clinical studies show that tDCS can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms by modulating brain areas associated with emotional processing. It is particularly effective when combined with cognitive-behavioural therapy, providing an integrated, non-drug approach.
tDCS offers consistent results in the treatment of chronic pain, including fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain, by modulating the pain processing circuits in the brain. Patients often report a significant reduction in pain intensity and improvement in quality of life after multiple sessions.
Stimulation of specific regions of the prefrontal cortex can improve cognitive functions such as working memory, attention and decision-making. It benefits patients with mild cognitive decline, stroke sequelae and other neurological conditions that affect cognition.
When applied in conjunction with conventional physiotherapy, tDCS enhances neuroplasticity and accelerates motor recovery in patients after stroke. Stimulation of the primary motor cortex has shown significant improvements in the motor function of affected upper and lower limbs.
tDCS targeting the prefrontal cortex can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in patients with dependence on alcohol, nicotine and other substances. The treatment helps strengthen inhibitory control mechanisms and reduce impulsive behaviour associated with relapse.
Specific tDCS protocols have been shown to be effective in reducing the perception and discomfort caused by chronic tinnitus. Stimulation of auditory and associative areas can interrupt the abnormal patterns of neural activity related to tinnitus, providing lasting relief to patients.
Cathodal (inhibitory) tDCS applied to epileptogenic foci can reduce cortical excitability and reduce seizure frequency in patients with refractory epilepsy. This complementary approach proves particularly useful when traditional anticonvulsant drugs are not sufficiently effective.
In conditions such as Parkinson's disease, tDCS can improve motor function and reduce symptoms such as rigidity and bradykinesia. Stimulation of the motor cortex and areas associated with the basal nuclei results in measurable improvements in gait, balance and fine motor coordination.
SUCCESS RATES
...of patients with resistant depression show clinically significant improvement in symptoms after treatment with tDCS.
...average reduction in pain intensity in patients with chronic pain after a complete tDCS protocol.
...improvement in post-stroke motor function when tDCS is combined with intensive physical rehabilitation.
...of patients with chronic tinnitus report a significant reduction in the intensity and annoyance of the symptom.
...reduction in seizure frequency in patients with refractory epilepsy treated with tDCS.
...average improvement in cognitive functions in patients with mild cognitive impairment.
IMPORTANCE OF THE CONSULTATION
A specialised clinical assessment is essential to determine the suitability of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) for your specific condition. During the initial consultation, our multidisciplinary team will carry out a detailed analysis of your medical history, current condition and previous treatments in order to develop a personalised protocol that meets your specific needs.
This assessment process allows us not only to verify the indication for the treatment, but also to identify the ideal electrode set-up, the current intensity and the number of sessions recommended to maximise the therapeutic benefits in your case. The consultation is the ideal time to clarify all your doubts about the technique, expectations of results, and possible sensations during the sessions, ensuring that you feel completely safe and confident when you start the treatment.
