How does transcranial direct current stimulation work?

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. A constant, low intensity current is passed through two electrodes placed over the head which modulates neuronal activity.

Where do you put tDCS?

tDCS involves the emission of a weak electrical current, traditionally via the placement of two electrodes attached to the scalp of a participant. In this traditional, unihemispheric tDCS set-up, one electrode is known as the target electrode, and the other the reference electrode.

Can tDCS make you smarter?

Findings suggest this form of electric stimulation — known as transcranial direct current stimulation, or tDCS — could make you better at math, more creative and even boost memory.

Does tDCS work for depression?

Beneficial effects of tDCS have been reported in the treatment of psychiatric (mainly depression and schizophrenia) and neurological diseases, as well as in the rehabilitation of cognitive, motor, and sensory functions after a stroke [8,13].

Can tDCS cause brain damage?

Overall, little is known about either form of long-term risk, but there is currently no evidence that tDCS causes long-term damage when used within appropriate guidelines. It is currently unclear how cognitive functioning in non-target areas is effected by tDCS.

How much current is in tDCS?

Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a portable, wearable brain stimulation technique that delivers a low electric current to the scalp. A fixed current between 1 and 2 mA is typically applied1. tDCS works by applying a positive (anodal) or negative (cathodal) current via electrodes to an area.

How do you make saline solution for tDCS?

Prepare your saline solution: Add 1/4 to 1/2 tsp of table salt to an 8 oz. glass of fresh water. Preferably lukewarm temperature. Stir gently until the salt granules have dissolved into the water.

How long do the effects of tDCS last?

The main result of our study, however, is that the beneficial effect of on-line A-tDCS was maintained over a period of up to 16 weeks after the end of stimulation.

Can tDCS improve memory?

The results of the statistical power analyses also showed a high power of the significance. These results showed the promising benefits of tDCS on WM training, by not only enlarging memory capacity, but also enhancing the performance of stable-load tasks.

Is TMS better than tDCS?

Moreover, TMS has better spatial and temporal resolution, TMS protocols are better established, but tDCS has the advantage to be easier to use in double-blind or sham-controlled studies and easier to apply concurrently with behavioural tasks.

Does tDCS work for OCD?

Despite methodological limitations and the heterogeneity of stimulation parameters, tDCS appears to be a promising tool to decrease obsessive-compulsive symptoms as well as comorbid depression and anxiety in patients with treatment-resistant OCD.