Episode 4

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Published on:

15th Dec 2024

The Role of tDCS in Migraine Therapy - #4 - Dec 14, 2024

Exploring TDCS for Migraine Treatment: An In-Depth Study Review

In this episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore, Clinical Associate Professor from the University of British Columbia, we dive into the world of transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS) for the treatment of migraine headaches. The episode features a detailed analysis of the study 'Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Migraine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials' by Hong and colleagues. Key areas covered include the study's methodologies, findings on the efficacy and safety of TDCS, and its potential implications for clinical practice. The episode aims to offer a comprehensive review and critical appraisal of the study, exploring how TDCS might influence future migraine treatments. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the content through social media and to consult their healthcare providers for personalized medical advice.

00:00 Introduction to the Neurostimulation Podcast

00:55 Podcast Mission and Audience

01:14 Evidence-Based Analysis Commitment

01:46 Disclaimer and Full Disclosure

02:26 Episode Sponsor and Introduction

02:55 Exploring TDCS for Migraine Treatment

05:12 Overview of the Hong Study

10:42 Study Findings and Implications

27:26 Critical Appraisal Using PRISMA

34:40 Conclusion and Future Directions


Study:


Hong P, Liu Y, Wei Y, Zhao J, Zhang J, Zhang Q, et al. Transcranial direct current stimulation for migraine: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2022;28(5):692–701. doi:10.1111/cns.13843.


https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35437933/


tDCS and migraine resources:


Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has been explored as a potential treatment for migraines.


• The Journal of Headache and Pain: This journal features a systematic review titled “Which is the best transcranial direct current stimulation protocol for migraine prevention?” The article critically appraises randomized controlled trials to determine optimal tDCS protocols for migraine prevention. 

https://thejournalofheadacheandpain.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s10194-021-01361-0


• Brain Stimulation Journal: An article titled “Long-term prophylactic efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation in chronic migraine” discusses the effectiveness of tDCS as a preventive treatment for chronic migraine, providing insights into study designs and outcomes. 


https://www.brainstimjrnl.com/article/S1935-861X%2822%2900040-7/fulltext


• The Journal of Head and Face Pain: This publication includes a systematic review on the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and tDCS for headache treatment, offering a comprehensive overview of neuromodulation techniques in managing headache disorders, including migraines. 


https://www.brainsway.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Stilling_The-Journal-of-Head-and-Face-Pain-2019_TMS_tDCS_Headache_Review.pdf


• The Journal of Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Research: A review article titled “The efficacy of tDCS in the treatment of migraine” examines various studies on tDCS application for migraine relief, discussing methodologies, results, and clinical implications. 


https://www.alliedacademies.org/articles/the-efficacy-of-tdcs-in-the-treatment-of-migraine-a-review.pdf


• SpringerLink: The book chapter “Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation” in the publication “Neuromodulation in Headache and Facial Pain Management” provides an in-depth discussion on the application of tDCS in treating migraines, including technical aspects and clinical findings. 


https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-14121-9_8

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About the Podcast

The Neurostimulation Podcast
Exploring the frontier of interventional mental health.
Welcome to The Neurostimulation Podcast — a deep dive into the expanding frontier of interventional mental health.

Hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore, a psychiatrist specializing in neurostimulation and geriatric mental health, this show explores how cutting-edge interventions — from non-invasive brain stimulation (TMS, tDCS, and beyond) to ketamine-assisted psychotherapy — are reshaping the landscape of modern psychiatry and neuroscience.

Each episode bridges science, clinical experience, and human insight, featuring thought leaders and innovators who are redefining how we understand and treat the mind.

Whether you’re a clinician, researcher, student, or simply fascinated by the brain, you’ll discover practical knowledge, fresh ideas, and inspiring conversations that illuminate the evolving art and science of mental health care.

Subscribe for episodes that stimulate your mind, deepen your understanding, and connect you to the future of brain-based healing.

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Michael Passmore

Dr. Michael Passmore is a psychiatrist based in Vancouver, BC, with expertise in non-invasive neurostimulation therapies, geriatric mental health and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Having completed specialized training in multiple neurostimulation modalities, including electroconvulsive therapy at Duke University and transcranial magnetic stimulation at Harvard University, Dr. Passmore brings a robust clinical and academic background to his practice. Formerly the head of the neurostimulation program in the department of Psychiatry at Providence Health Care, Dr. Passmore now serves as a clinical associate professor at the University of British Columbia’s Department of Psychiatry. At Sea to Sky NeuroClinic (seatoskyneuro.clinic), Dr. Passmore offers interventional mental health treatments tailored to clients across Canada.​