Basic Knowledge of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation
Paradee Auvichayapat MD*, Narong Auvichayapat MD**
Affiliation : * Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand ** Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
Background : Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) was a neurophysiologic technique using weak electrical currents
(1-2 mA) to modulate the activity of neurons in the brain. It was discovered in the 1960s, and then reintroduced by the
reasonably well-controlled experiments 12 years ago. They suggested that electrodes placed on the head can produce
noticeable neurological changes depended on the current direction.
Objective : To review a basic technique of the instrument, mechanism of action, and application in clinical researches of tDCS.
Material and Method: The tDCS studies were thoroughly reviewed in MEDLINE database using the key words “Transcranial
direct current stimulation, tDCS, noninvasive brain stimulation, neurophysiologic technique” from 1998 to 2010.
Results : The basic technique of the instrument, mechanism of action, application in clinical researches such as stroke, pain
syndrome and craving; safety, side effect, and precaution of tDCS are described.
Conclusion : tDCS study is rapidly increasing and accepted as a noninvasive technique. It is easy to use and safe. The
outcomes of tDCS in clinical researches are preferable with very little side effects.
Keywords : Transcranial direct current stimulation, tDCS, Noninvasive brain stimulation, Neurophysiologic technique
