Transcranial direct current stimulation as a strategy to manage COVID-19 pain and fatigue

ABSTRACT

SUMMARY The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has infected millions of people worldwide and generated many sequels in the survivors, such as muscular pain and fatigue. These symptoms have been treated through pharmacological approaches; however, infected people keep presenting physical limitations. Besides, the COVID-19 damage to the central nervous system has also been related to the presence of some physical impairment, so strategies that focus on diverse brain areas should be encouraged. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-pharmacological tool that could be associated with pharmacological treatments to improve the central nervous system function and decrease the exacerbation of the immune system response. tDCS targeting pain and fatigue-related areas could provide an increase in neuroplasticity and enhancements in physical functions. Moreover, it can be used in infirmaries and clinical centers to treat COVID-19 patients.