Home > Encyclopedia of Medicine > Electrical Stimulation of the Brain

Definition

Electrical stimulation of the brain (ESB) is a relatively new technique used to treat chronic pain and tremors associated with Parkinson disease. ESB is administered by passing an electrical current through an electrode implanted in the brain.

Purpose

While the implantation of electrodes in the brain is used to treat or diagnose several disorders, the term ESB is limited here to the treatment of tremors, and as a pain management tool for patients suffering from back problems and other chronic injuries and illnesses.

Precautions

An ESB tremor control device, used in treating Parkinson patients, may...