Anodal tDCS Offers Long-Term Relief for Chronic Migraine Sufferers

Research Summary

A study published in Pain Practice explored the effectiveness of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on chronic migraine sufferers, comparing two electrical stimulation methods over the primary visual cortex. Seventy-two patients were randomly assigned to receive either anodal, cathodal, or sham tDCS. Both real tDCS methods significantly decreased migraine attack frequency, pain intensity, attack duration, and painkiller use during treatment. However, only anodal tDCS maintained these benefits during follow-up, unlike the sham treatment, which showed no significant effects. The research highlights that anodal tDCS may enhance long-term migraine relief by stabilizing therapeutic outcomes through brain pathway reorganization.

Study Details

📄 Title: Immediate and Long-Term Effects of Different Montages of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Over Primary Visual Cortex in Patients With Chronic Migraine: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Sham-Controlled Trial.

👥 Research Team: Alavi CE et al.

📚 Published In: Pain Pract

📅 Publication Date: 2026 Jan

⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This summary is generated automatically from recent migraine research. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice.