Accelerated Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation as an Adjunctive Treatment for Rapid Symptom Relief in Bodily Distress Disorder: A Case Series

Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine 2026 Open access

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Authors: Jithin Thekkelkuthiyathottil Joseph, Rashmi Vishwanath, Ashok Jammigumpula, Abhiram N. Purohith, Sonia Shenoy, Samir Kumar Praharaj
DOI: 10.1177/02537176261442676
Cited by: 1
References: 19

Abstract

Bodily distress disorder (BDD) is a challenging condition often unresponsive to pharmacotherapy. This case series explores accelerated transcranial direct current stimulation (atDCS) as an adjunctive treatment in five patients with treatment-resistant BDD. Patients received 2-5 daily sessions over approximately 10 days, targeting the left motor cortex or dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Four patients showed significant pain reduction (Visual Analogue Scale [VAS] scores reduced from 9.0 ± 1.4 to 3.8 ± 2.2) and overall symptom improvement, with minimal adverse effects. These findings suggest that atDCS is a safe, feasible and potentially effective intervention for BDD.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Studies Spatial Neglect and Hemispheric Dysfunction Pain Management and Treatment

Publication details

Journal / source
Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine
Publisher
SAGE Publications
Volume
48
Issue
3
Pages
335–338
Publication date
19 April 2026
Language
EN