Exploring TDCS for Fibromyalgia Pain Relief

In this episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, host Michael Passmore, Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of British Columbia, introduces the podcast's focus on bringing cutting-edge neuroscience research and education to the public. The episode delves into the use of transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS) as a treatment for chronic pain in fibromyalgia patients. Detailed insights into the systematic review and meta-analysis conducted on existing TDCS studies are provided, along with an exploration of fibromyalgia, its symptoms, and the challenges in treating it. The episode also discusses the methodology, findings, and implications of the research, highlighting both the strengths and limitations. Emphasis is placed on making the science accessible, and caveats are given regarding the educational nature of the podcast and the importance of professional medical guidance.

00:00 Welcome to the Neurostimulation Podcast

00:18 Introduction to the Podcast and Host

00:26 Podcast Mission and Structure

01:45 Disclaimer and Ethical Considerations

02:26 Episode Sponsor and Disclosure

02:57 Introduction to Today's Topic: TDCS and Fibromyalgia

03:21 Understanding Fibromyalgia

04:17 Challenges in Treating Fibromyalgia

05:26 Introduction to TDCS

06:13 Study Overview: TDCS for Fibromyalgia

06:50 Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Explained

07:58 Study Methodology and Parameters

11:58 Key Findings and Implications

15:10 Critical Appraisal of the Study

19:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Study:

Moshfeghinia R, Shekouh D, Mostafavi S, Hosseinzadeh M, Bahadori AR, Abdollahifard S, et al. The effects of transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) on pain intensity of patients with fibromyalgia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Neurol. 2023;23(1):395. doi:10.1186/s12883-023-03445-7.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37919664/

tDCS and fibromyalgia resources:

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has shown promise in alleviating pain associated with fibromyalgia.

• Fibromyalgia Support Network (FSN): FSN offers patient education and resources on chronic illnesses like fibromyalgia. Their website provides information on various treatment options, including neuromodulation techniques such as tDCS. 

https://fibrosupportnetwork.ca/

• International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP): IASP features articles and systematic reviews on pain management strategies. One such article discusses the effects of tDCS on pain intensity in fibromyalgia patients, offering insights into its efficacy. 

https://www.iasp-pain.org/publications/pain-research-forum/papers-of-the-week/paper/the-effects-of-transcranial-direct-current-stimulation-tdcs-on-pain-intensity-of-patients-with-fibromyalgia-a-systematic-review-and-meta-analysis/

• Fibromyalgia News Today: This platform provides news and articles related to fibromyalgia research and treatments. An article titled “Managing Chronic Pain with Transcranial Direct Stimulation Shows Promise” explores the potential benefits of tDCS for fibromyalgia patients. 

https://fibromyalgianewstoday.com/2017/04/05/managing-chronic-pain-tdcs-transcranial-direct-current-stimulation/

• Neurology Advisor: An article titled “Can Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Effectively Treat Fibromyalgia?” discusses recent studies and findings on the use of tDCS in managing fibromyalgia symptoms, providing a clinical perspective on its application.

https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/news/transcranial-direct-current-stimulation-effectively-treat-fibromyalgia/