Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive therapy method that uses weak electrical currents to stimulate brain activity. This technique is now widely used in the medical world to help the rehabilitation process of stroke patients. tDCS works by flowing electrical current through electrodes placed on the scalp. This electrical current is painless, but it can affect the activity of neurons in certain areas of the brain. In stroke patients, tDCS is used to stimulate parts of the brain that are affected by nerve damage, as well as balance activity between the affected and healthy hemispheres of the brain.
The benefits of tDCS in stroke healing are very diverse. One of the main benefits is improving the recovery of motor function. Stroke often causes weakness or paralysis on one side of the body (hemiparesis). By stimulating the motor cortex, tDCS can speed up the recovery of body movement, especially when combined with physical therapy. In addition, tDCS also helps improve cognitive functions, such as memory, attention, and information processing, which are often impaired due to stroke. Impaired speech ability (aphasia) can also be improved with tDCS, especially if the electrical current is directed to the areas of the brain that regulate language, such as Broca's area or Wernicke's area.
In addition to these functions, tDCS is also useful for reducing chronic pain and muscle spasticity that are often experienced by stroke patients. By modulating nerve signals in the brain, tDCS can help reduce pain and muscle stiffness, which are often obstacles in the rehabilitation process. The combination of tDCS with other therapies, such as occupational therapy and speech therapy, has also been shown to increase the effectiveness of the overall rehabilitation program.
tDCS works with two main types of stimulation: anodal and cathodal stimulation. Anodal stimulation increases neuronal activity in underactive areas of the brain, such as the hemisphere affected by stroke. Meanwhile, cathodal stimulation suppresses excess activity in overactive areas of the brain, usually the healthy hemisphere, helping to balance activity between the two sides of the brain. This process supports neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections after damage from stroke.
The main advantage of tDCS is its non-invasive, safe and painless nature. The electric current used is very weak, so the patient only feels a mild tingling sensation. In addition, tDCS can be easily combined with various other therapeutic methods to improve recovery outcomes. With its various benefits, tDCS is one of the promising therapeutic methods in helping stroke patients regain their body functions and quality of life.
Article written by Dr. Nadia Devianca, Sp.N (Neurology Specialist Doctor, EMC Pulomas Hospital).