Cerebellar tDCS: how to do it

Abstract

Cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (cerebellar tDCS) is a non-invasive technique for inducing prolonged functional changes in the human cerebellum. Available data show that this simple and safe technique can modulate several motor and non-motor cerebellar functions in healthy humans. Also, preliminary data suggest that cerebellar tDCS is a possible therapeutic option in patients with cerebellar disorders. To provide a reference for those approaching this technique for the first time in healthy humans and patients, we here briefly and practically review the methodology for cerebellar tDCS, discussing electrode types, positions, DC duration and intensity. Recent modelling studies confirm that the electric field generated with the methodology reviewed here reaches the cerebellum at a strength within the range of values for modulating activity in the cerebellar neurons experimentally assessed.