Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and trigeminal pain: a pre‐clinical study

Abstract

Objective

Our objective was to evaluate the tDCS effect on facial allodynia induced by chronic constriction of the infraorbital nerve (CCI‐ION) and on the brainstem levels of TNF‐α, NGF, IL‐10 and, serum LDH in rats.

Methods

Rats were exposed to the CCI‐ION model. Facial allodynia was assessed by Von Frey filaments test at baseline, 3, 7, 10 and 14 days post‐surgery and24h and 7 days after the bimodal tDCS sessions for 20 min/day/8 days.

Results

CCI‐ION induced a significant decrease in the mechanical threshold 14 days after surgery. This effect was reversed by tDCS treatment, with the mechanical threshold returning to basal levels at 24h after the end of the treatment and it persisted for 7 days after the end of the treatment. tDCS also decreased LDH serum levels compared to those in the control group. There was an interaction between pain and treatment with respect to brainstem levels of NGF, TNF‐α, and IL‐10.

Conclusion

CCI‐ION model was effective in establishing trigeminal neuropathic pain on 14 days after surgery, and tDCS reduced allodynia and LDH serum levels and promoted alterations in NGF, TNF‐α, and IL‐10 brainstem levels. Thus, we suggest that tDCS may be a potential therapy in the trigeminal pain treatment.

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