Brain Stimulation Therapies in Delhi

The core idea is simple: By stimulating certain areas of the brain, we can influence neuronal activity to alleviate symptoms, restore balance, and improve mental and emotional well-being. Brain stimulation therapies are often considered when other forms of traditional treatments, such as medication or therapy, have failed to deliver meaningful results. They can be highly beneficial if you are battling conditions such as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), or tobacco addiction.

Invasive Techniques

• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) : Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical procedure where electrodes are implanted into specific regions of your brain to regulate abnormal activity. It is primarily used for movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia. The electrodes are connected to a small device implanted in the chest, which sends electrical impulses to control symptoms.

Non-Invasive Techniques

• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) : TMS is a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate targeted areas of your brain. It has gained popularity for treating Depression, Anxiety Disorders, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), especially in cases where medication has failed.
• Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) : tDCS involves applying a mild electrical current to specific regions of your brain to enhance or suppress neuronal activity. This method is becoming increasingly popular for conditions such as Depression, stroke rehabilitation, and chronic pain management.

DBS is used for treating : 

• Parkinson’s Disease – Helps reduce tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement.
• Essential Tremor – Effective in reducing involuntary shaking, and improving daily activities.
• Dystonia – Alleviates abnormal muscle contractions and involuntary movements.

TMS is used for treating : 

• Depression – Particularly effective for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD).
• Anxiety Disorders – Helps regulate emotional responses.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – Reduces intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours.

tDCS is used for treating :

• Depression – Enhances mood by targeting key brain regions.
• Stroke Rehabilitation – Supports neuroplasticity and recovery.
• Chronic Pain Management – Helps alleviate persistent pain conditions.

Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) : Unlike tDCS, which delivers a constant low current, tACS uses a fluctuating current that synchronises with the brain’s natural rhythm. Early studies suggest this method may be particularly useful for conditions characterised by abnormal brain oscillations, such as epilepsy, Schizophrenia, and insomnia. By ‘entraining’ the brain’s electrical patterns, tACS seeks to restore more natural neural activity.

Sacral Nerve Stimulation (SNS) : Sacral Nerve Stimulation is a specialised form of neuromodulation therapy that targets the sacral nerves located at the base of the spine. These nerves play a crucial role in controlling bladder, bowel, and pelvic floor function. SNS is primarily used to treat conditions such as urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, faecal incontinence, and certain types of chronic pelvic pain.

The therapy involves the implantation of a small device, similar to a pacemaker, which sends mild electrical impulses to the sacral nerves via a thin wire. These impulses help to regulate and restore normal communication between the brain and the pelvic organs, thereby improving symptoms and enhancing the quality of your life.

Focused Ultrasound Neuromodulation (FUS) : This technique employs high-frequency sound waves to target deep brain structures without the need for incisions or implants. While still largely experimental, FUS shows promise for treating conditions such as essential tremors, chronic pain, and even certain psychiatric disorders. One of the key advantages of FUS is its non-invasive nature combined with a high degree of precision, making it an appealing option for those suffering from it and clinicians alike.

TMS : TMS is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. Most people undergoing TMS report only mild and temporary side effects, such as scalp discomfort at the site of stimulation, headaches, or light-headedness. These symptoms tend to subside shortly after treatment and rarely require medical intervention.

tDCS : tDCS is also regarded as a safe form of brain stimulation. Most people undergoing tDCS experience only mild and short-lived side effects, such as a tingling sensation on the scalp, slight itching, or redness under the electrodes. Some may report a mild headache or fatigue following the session.

DBS : DBS, while highly effective for certain neurological and psychiatric conditions, involves a surgical procedure, and therefore, carries a higher risk profile. Common side effects can include temporary swelling or discomfort at the surgical site, and some people may experience mood swings, speech difficulties, or balance issues post-implantation. More serious risks—such as infection, bleeding, or hardware complications—are rare but possible.