Cerebellar Direct Current Stimulation (ctDCS) for the treatment of Phantom Limb Pain (PLP)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possibility to modulate pain perception with cerebellar transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (ctDCS) in phantom limb pain (PLP). Patients underwent ctDCS (anodal or sham, 2.0\u202fmA, 20’ per day, five days a week). Clinical scores (VAS) and electrophysiological parameters (Laser Evoked Potentials, LEPs) were assessed before tDCS, at the end of 5-days treatment, two weeks and one month after ctDCS completion. LEPs were obtained using a Nd:YAP laser (wavelength 1.04\u202fμm, pulse 164 duration 2–20\u202fms). The amputated limb was stimulated by laser pulses with short duration (5\u202fms) and small diameter spots (5\u202fmm). Anodal tcDCS reduced non-painful phantom limb sensations (p