tACS
What is tACS?
Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) is an electrical stimulation where a weak alternating current affects the functioning of the brain.
As with all other forms of tES, electrodes are placed on the scalp to stimulate a specific part of the brain. Since the scalp and the skull form a barrier with much resistance, only part of the applied electrical flow will reach the cerebral cortex, Yet the strength of the current that reaches the brain cells is sufficient to influence the functioning of the neurons.
In contrast to direct current, the electric current continuously changes direction in alternating current. The speed of changing the polarity can be set. In this way we can use slow and fast oscillations to influence the neurons.
Scientific research shows that the alpha frequency (resting frequency) of the visual brain areas is enhanced when a tACS stimulation administers this specific frequency to the visual cerebral cortex.
How is tACS applied?
By placing electrodes on the scalp, a specific part of the brain is stimulated. Because the scalp and the skull provide resistance, only part of the applied flow will reach the cerebral cortex. Yet the strength of the current is just enough to influence the functioning of neurons.
The tACS stimulation is not painful. During a tACS session, the patient is seated in a comfortable chair.
To achieve an effect, 2 to 3 stimulations per week are performed. Only after 4 to 5 sessions can it be evaluated whether or not the stimulation affects the symptoms. A complete treatment consists of at least 8 to 10 stimulations. In chronic conditions, it is sometimes necessary to repeat these stimuli at regular intervals.
TACS can be applied to many ailments such as tinnitus, depression, CFS, fibromyalgia, burnout, chronic pain, etc.
