Harnessing the Power of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation for Chronic Pain-Harnessing the Power of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation for Chronic Pain

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Video Summary

In the session titled "Harnessing the Power of Noninvasive Brain Stimulation for Chronic Pain," experts discussed various noninvasive brain stimulation techniques and their applications in treating chronic pain. The session was chaired by Dr. Woodbury and Dr. Leung. Dr. Leung introduced the concept of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), explaining its potential in modulating pain perception through cortical stimulation. TMS, particularly effective for neuropathic pain, utilizes magnetic fields to induce electrical currents in specific brain regions, offering a non-pharmacological approach to pain management.<br /><br />Following Dr. Leung, Dr. Martinez explored Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) and its variant, nonconvulsive ECT (NET), as treatments for chronic pain, highlighting their potential for patients with comorbid psychiatric disorders. NET, which does not induce seizures, was noted for its safety and efficacy in reducing depressive symptoms without cognitive side effects.<br /><br />Dr. Fragney presented on transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS), detailing its ability to change cortical excitability and its application for conditions like phantom limb pain. Despite moderate effectiveness, TDCS shows promise when used with other therapeutic interventions.<br /><br />Lastly, Dr. Townsend discussed transcranial alternating current stimulation (TACS) and cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES), emphasizing the importance of selecting appropriate patient populations and stimulation parameters. While CES is FDA-cleared for anxiety and insomnia, both techniques are being investigated for chronic pain, employing patterned, low-amplitude stimulation.<br /><br />Overall, the session underscored the potential of these diverse brain stimulation modalities in chronic pain management, with ongoing research necessary to optimize treatment parameters and identify suitable patient cohorts for each technique.

Keywords

noninvasive brain stimulation

chronic pain

transcranial magnetic stimulation

neuropathic pain

electroconvulsive therapy

transcranial direct current stimulation

phantom limb pain

cranial electrotherapy stimulation

pain management

brain stimulation techniques