Transcranial direct current stimulation: effects, clinical applications, and future perspectives in neurology and physical performance

Abstract

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive technique that allows modulation of cortical excitability and can produce changes in neuronal plasticity. The application of tDCS has recently been associated with respiratory muscles and several neurological disorders. Thus, this study is constructed in the format of an article, with the objective of discussing the effects, clinical applications and future perspectives related to Transcracenian Direct Current Stimulation in the respiratory muscles, as well as discussing the applications of tDCS in other areas, such as neurological and psychological aspects. As a research methodology, a literature review will be used in this study. This study discusses the clinical applications of tDCS in several diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, depression, drug and food compulsion, as well as its application in the process of physical and respiratory performance. Recent studies suggest that a new field of applicability of tDCS may be related to a probable ergogenic effect induced by it, especially on the production of muscle and respiratory strength, aerobic performance and perception of exertion.