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Table 1 Fundamentals of tDCS

From: Transcranial direct current stimulation for promoting motor function in cerebral palsy: a review

 • Typically, two electrodes are placed on the scalp, one over the area of interest (e.g. motor cortex), and current flows between them

 • Typical sensations include tingling, prickling and itching of the scalp as the current intensity ramps up

 • Sham stimulation can be effectively applied by ramping up stimulation for a short period, then turning it off

 • Current direction, duration and intensity all require consideration

 • Anodal tDCS typically enhances cortical excitability and reduces inhibition, cathodal tDCS typically suppresses excitability

 • tDCS can be delivered at rest or during a task, e.g. motor training

 • Effects can be seen during and after tDCS

 • Single session effects can be seen, or cumulative effects over multiple sessions