ABC Medical Center’s commitment to stroke patients goes beyond the moment the event occurs. Because a stroke can significantly affect the quality of life of both patients and their families, the center has created the “Support Group for Stroke Patients and Their Families.”
In this space, both patients and family members have the opportunity to share their experiences, ideas, feelings, and even tips about what life after a stroke is like. This not only helps people express their emotions but also lets those who have been through the same experience learn from and teach one another what matters.
The group meets on the first Tuesday of every month, is open to the public, and is free. Learn more on the Stroke page.
Beyond sharing experiences, the support group also features presentations by specialists on topics important to patients and families.
One example was a talk given by Dr. Juan Manuel Calleja Castillo, neurology specialist at ABC Medical Center, on the topic “Neurostimulation and Recovery After a Stroke.”
Deep brain stimulation is a form of neurostimulation, or brain stimulation, in which electrical currents, magnetic fields, or other types of energy are used to stimulate certain structures in the central nervous system, triggering a response for either diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
Its main goal is to modulate neuronal activity by regulating how nerve cells communicate with each other. This makes it a tool for treating neurological and psychiatric disorders, as well as improving cognitive function.
Several brain stimulation techniques exist, though not all are used as frequently in Mexico.
Deep Brain Stimulation
In deep brain stimulation, electrodes are implanted in specific areas of the brain to modulate electrical activity. While this procedure is most commonly used in patients with Parkinson’s disease, it has also been studied as a potential option for the rehabilitation of patients who have experienced a stroke, though its use in this context is not yet widespread.
In general, while each technique has its own specific characteristics, and some are invasive while others are not, all share the same goal of finding the best way to stimulate the brain, targeting the areas that offer the most benefit for each individual patient, concludes Dr. Calleja.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Transcranial magnetic stimulation is one of the most frequently used techniques in the country. This non-invasive technique uses a device placed on the scalp that produces a magnetic field, which generates electrical currents that affect the brain, either stimulating it or inhibiting neuronal activity in a specific region.
In stroke patients, this procedure has shown significant rehabilitation potential by helping with motor recovery, since it’s common for a person to experience weakness or paralysis on one side of the body following a stroke.
Dr. Calleja notes that transcranial magnetic stimulation is also used to improve language function. This device can address aphasia, a disorder caused by damage to the part of the brain that controls language, by stimulating language areas in the unaffected cerebral hemisphere and helping rehabilitate neural connectivity.
In stroke patients, transcranial magnetic stimulation has additional applications, including treating spasticity, improving cognitive function, reducing pain, and supporting the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation
Transcranial direct current stimulation is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that applies a very low-intensity current to the scalp, rather than using magnetic fields. This electrical current modulates neuronal excitability in the brain regions where the electrodes are placed.
In stroke patients specifically, promising results have been seen in improving motor function, language rehabilitation, and cognitive recovery.
Although transcranial direct current stimulation has shown benefits for these patients, it remains a technique still under research.
At ABC Medical Center’s Neurology Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Reach out with any questions about deep brain stimulation for stroke patients. Contact us!
