A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effect of tDCS on Chronic Low Back Pain
| Author | Mohaya Farzin | en |
| Author | Cyrus Emir Alavi | en |
| Author | Habib Eslami Kenarsari | en |
| Orcid | Mohaya Farzin [0000-0002-4571-6059] | en |
| Orcid | Cyrus Emir Alavi [0000-0001-8373-8307] | en |
| Orcid | Habib Eslami Kenarsari [0000-0002-7420-1994] | en |
| Issued Date | 2025-06-30 | en |
| Abstract | Context: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a prevalent and debilitating condition with limited long-term treatment options. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has emerged as a promising non-invasive method for pain relief and functional improvement. Data Sources: Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, covering the years 2010 to 2024. The search was limited to English-language publications to ensure consistency and reliability in the data analyzed. Study Selection: The inclusion criteria focused on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical studies that assessed the effects of tDCS on CLBP. Studies were selected based on their relevance to the main outcomes of interest, particularly pain intensity. Data Extraction: Data extraction was performed with an emphasis on the main outcome of pain intensity, measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes included functional and quality-of-life measures. The meta-analysis employed a random-effects model to account for variability among studies. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic, and publication bias was evaluated with funnel plots and Egger’s test. Results: Ten studies (totaling ~500 participants) met the inclusion criteria. The pooled mean difference in pain reduction was 1.95 units (95% CI: 1.5 - 2.4) on the VAS. Anodal stimulation over the motor cortex (M1) was most effective. Subgroup analysis showed lower heterogeneity for M1 stimulation (I2 = 30%) compared to dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) (I2 = 75%). Combination therapies (e.g., tDCS + physiotherapy) were associated with greater functional improvements. Conclusions: The tDCS appears to be an effective and safe intervention for reducing pain and enhancing functional outcomes in CLBP patients, particularly when targeting the M1. Further large-scale studies using standardized protocols are recommended. | en |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.5812/jkums-160044 | en |
| Keyword | Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation | en |
| Keyword | Chronic Low Back Pain | en |
| Keyword | Systematic Review | en |
| Publisher | Brieflands | en |
| Title | A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effect of tDCS on Chronic Low Back Pain | en |
| Type | Systematic Review | en |
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