Combining Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation to Investigate Pain-related Brain Networks in Patients With Neuropathic Pain
The proposed project aims to explore possible neuromodulatory effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on neuropathic pain caused by peripheral neuropathy. tDCS will be performed through an MRI-compatible stimulation setting during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanning. The stimulation target of tDCS will be the primary motor cortex (M1) and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). We expect that results from the current project will advance the understanding of neuromodulatory mechanisms of tDCS and facilitate the development of treatment strategies for patients with neuropathic pain.
• 1\. Age 20 or older and 90 or younger. 2. Ability to give informed consent 3. Neuropathic pain and/or nonpainful sensory symptoms resulted from I or II I. Peripheral neuropathy confirmed by clinical symptoms nerve conduction study, autonomic function test, quantitative sensory test, or skin biopsy.
⁃ II. Stroke involving somatosensory pathway confirmed by neuroimage 4. Agree not to take caffeine, alcohol, tea and drugs with significant nervous system effects for 48 hours before each study session.