Posted on:
By: Richard Williams

tDCS explained

Transcranial direct current stimulation, also known as tDCS, is a non-invasive and non-pharmacological form of brain stimulation.

This technique has been used as a treatment option for depression, as well as other psychological disorders, for over a decade. Until now, it was only available in-clinic.

Sooma Depression Therapy is a user-friendly neuromodulation system for the treatment of non-resistant depression. This treatment is prescribed by a physician. The therapy consists of 15-20 daily sessions over 3-4 weeks followed, if necessary, by a weekly session over up to 6 months. The sessions are usually done in the physician’s office. Some physicians allow the patients to treat themselves at home after having received instruction.

tDCS and depression

Brain cells communicate through electrical impulses. It has been observed through various scientific studies that while depressed, certain areas of the brain are not as active. More specifically, depressive symptoms have been associated with lower activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC).

tDCS works by activating neural networks through gentle currents. This electrical current stimulates brain activity in the DLPFC region and helps to reduce depression.

With depression, some areas of the brain are not as active

Brain cells communicate through electrical impulses. It has been observed through various scientific studies that while depressed, certain areas of the brain are not as active. More specifically, depressive symptoms have been associated with lower activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC).

tDCS works by activating neural networks through gentle currents. This electrical current stimulates brain activity in the DLPFC region and helps to reduce depression.

Stimulation dose control

The effects of tDCS are based on transcranial magnetic stimulation, which is an electrical current to the patient’s brain. As the current needs to pass through layers such as hair and skin that form resistance, the stimulator needs sufficient power to deliver the required current. Sooma tDCS is equipped with automated resistance monitoring that keeps the current delivery constant. The session dose in tDCS is not just the electrical output though but also involves where and for how long the stimulation is delivered, where we come to the question of accuracy.

By using user-replaceable batteries as a power source, we can extend the lifetime of the device beyond the lifetime of a chargeable battery.

Please note that Sooma tDCS is sold only to medical professionals. If you are a patient wishing to receive tDCS treatment, please contact us.