Likströmsstimulering

Likströmsstimulering, also known as direct current stimulation (DCS), is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that uses a constant, low-intensity direct electrical current applied to the scalp. This current passes through the skull and influences the electrical activity of specific brain regions. The primary goal of DCS is to alter neuronal excitability, making neurons either more or less likely to fire.

The application of DCS typically involves placing two electrodes, an anode and a cathode, on the scalp. The direction of the current flow between these electrodes determines the polarity of stimulation and its effect. Anodal stimulation, where the anode is placed over the target area, generally increases neuronal excitability, while cathodal stimulation, where the cathode is over the target, typically decreases it. The intensity of the current is usually very low, ranging from 1 to 2 milliamperes, and stimulation sessions typically last between 10 and 30 minutes.

Research into DCS has explored its potential therapeutic applications for a variety of neurological and psychiatric conditions. These include depression, stroke recovery, chronic pain, and cognitive impairments. While some studies have shown promising results, the efficacy and optimal parameters for DCS are still areas of active investigation. The exact mechanisms by which DCS exerts its effects are also not fully understood, though it is believed to involve changes in resting membrane potential and synaptic plasticity. Due to its non-invasive nature and relatively low cost, DCS continues to be a subject of interest in both clinical and research settings.