Neurostimulation: an overview
Our nervous system is the control center for all physical and psychological functions, comprising the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and neurotransmitters. Neurostimulation (Neuromodulation) refers to various techniques, both invasive and non-invasive, used to modulate the nervous system. The goal is to improve an individual's quality of life by reducing stress, overwhelm, and enhancing mood.
What is a Neurostimulation Device?
A neurostimulation device is a medical tool, invasive or non-invasive, used to modulate nervous system activity. While some are controlled by professionals, others can be user-controlled. Their purpose is to change or interrupt nervous system activity. Although there's often apprehension, medical advances have made modern devices safe.
Types of Neurostimulators
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
TMS is a non-invasive procedure primarily used to improve low mood and focus, and for smoking cessation, typically when other interventions have failed. It stimulates nerve cells in the brain using magnetic pulses delivered via a coil wrapped around the head. Multiple sessions are usually required.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)
tDCS is a non-invasive method used to enhance cognitive skills (learning, memory, problem-solving) and motor skills (movement). It is used for behavioral modification and skill development in both clinical and healthy populations, with the aim of facilitating learning or enhancing performance.
tDCS shows promising results for low mood, anxious thoughts, repetitive patterns, and can improve both the quantity and quality of sleep, boosting overall well-being.
Our non-invasive neurostimulator, Mave, uses tDCS. Studies showed that 30-minute usage for 21 days led to improvements in overall mood and emotional well-being in about 65% of users.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
The vagus nerve is the main nerve of the parasympathetic ("rest-and-digest") nervous system. VNS is an invasive procedure used for cluster headaches, migraines, and low-mood states that haven't responded to other treatments.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
DBS is a more involved, invasive procedure where tiny electrodes are placed into specific brain areas. It's most commonly used for movement disorders like Parkinson's disease, and in some cases, for persistent mental health challenges, when conventional options haven't been effective.
Neurofeedback (EEG)
Neurofeedback is a brain training approach and not direct stimulation. Sensors on the scalp measure brain activity, providing real-time feedback that helps the brain learn to regulate its own activity patterns over repeated sessions.
Benefits of Neurostimulators
- Safe options like tDCS are often considered an initial approach for low mood and emotional distress.
- They address the biological component of biopsychosocial well-being.
- They can help when other approaches have been ineffective.
- They may reduce reliance on medication for some pain conditions.
- They can be a helpful treatment for neuropsychiatric disorders in the elderly, such as Dementia and Parkinson's.
Safety and Side Effects
While invasive techniques carry surgical risks, non-invasive neurostimulation devices are generally considered safe, especially with short-term use.
Like any intervention, side effects are possible, varying by the type of neurostimulation. These can include mood changes, cognitive impairment, itching or burning, impaired memory, cough, or hoarse voice. Invasive procedures carry risks like infection.
For tDCS specifically, the main side effect is skin irritation, with no other known major side effects, making it one of the safest neurostimulators for home use.