Project R-13386

The effect of conventional versus individualized transcranial direct current stimulation intensity to achieve uniform E-Fields in persons with multiple sclerosis (Research)

Background: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising intervention in individuals with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Still, tDCS studies lead to substantial variations in physiological and behavioral Results. This disparity seems unexpected, based on the assumption that cortical activity consistently changes once tDCS procedures are applied. However, this assumption does not hold consider factors (such as age, disease, severity of symptoms, and head geometry, among others) that may cause tDCS to influence. Objective: Our objectives are twofold. First, we want the physiological and behavioral reduce variability due to tDCS by individualizing current intensity. Second we will study the neurophysiological and behavioral outcomes between PwMS that a getting individualized versus fixed current intensity. Methods: Based on master models generated by structural magnetic resonance imaging scans, we will determine an individualized stimulation intensity to achieve uniform electric fields guarantee in the primary motor cortex. Sixty PwMS are randomly divided into three groups (sham, a fixed 2mA or an individualized current) offered for three sessions. Physiological and cognitive-behavioral measurements are taken before and after the intervention to assess the therapeutic potential to evaluate. Clinical relevance: Individualizing tDCS for PwMS is expected to result in a better clinical outcome (that is, more robust physiological and behavioral effects), by comparison with fixed current applications.

01 January 2023 - 24 October 2024