Neuromodulation & movement program for Parkinson's disease and Stroke rehabilitation
Rehabilitation that supports the Brain - Body Connection
Delivered with care and expertise by Flow Health's physiotherapy and allied health team in Robina on the Gold Coast.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation therapy that may support people living with neurological impairments associated with conditions such as Parkinson's disease and Stroke.
tDCS may support function by helping the brain become more responsive to rehabilitation and movement retraining.
tDCS does not replace therapy — it is used to support the brain’s readiness to respond to therapy.
Supporting Brain Balance and Functional Recovery
Your brain controls movement, sensation, and pain through interconnected networks. In some conditions, these networks can become out of balance:
tDCS applies a very low electrical current to specific areas of the scalp, gently encouraging brain activity toward a more balanced and efficient pattern.
This may help to:
Support activation of underactive brain regions
Calm overactive pain-processing circuits
Improve communication between brain cells
Create a more receptive environment for rehabilitation and learning
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tDCS works best when paired with active rehabilitation.
By applying stimulation before or during therapy:
The brain may become more receptive to practice
Movements and exercises may be easier to perform
Functional gains may be more sustainable over time
This process supports neuroplasticity — the brain’s natural ability to adapt, reorganise, and form new connections.
When combined with physical and cognitive exercises, tDCS may support:
Improved muscle activation and strength
Greater stability during walking or transfers, and improved balance.
Improved coordination in the arms or legs.
Enhanced response to rehabilitation exercises
- Improvements in speech patterns and clarity.
tDCS sessions are calm, comfortable, and closely supervised.
During treatment:
Small sponge electrodes are placed on the scalp
A very low electrical current is applied to targeted areas
Mild tingling or warmth may be felt initially and usually fades within minutes
You remain fully alert and able to talk, move, and participate
Each session lasts approximately 20–30 minutes.
For maximal benefit, tDCS at Flow Health is typically paired with a gentle, targeted exercise or task-specific program designed by a physiotherapist while the stimulation is running.
tDCS is:
- Non-invasive
- Drug-free
- Widely studied for over 20 years
Possible short-term effects may include:
Mild headache
Fatigue
Dizziness
Temporary redness under the electrodes
These effects are generally mild and settle quickly. You are monitored throughout each session to ensure comfort and safety.
Individual responses vary — some people notice changes within several sessions, while others experience more gradual improvements over time.
Wondering if tDCS could help? Start with a free phone consultation.
Non-invasive neuromodulation with tDCS has a growing evidence base. If you would like to explore the research further, the following reviews may be of interest:
tDCS at Flow Health is a privately billed medical service and is offered as a program, not a single session. There is currently no Medicare rebate available for the tDCS component of the treatment program however you may be entitled to claim for the physiotherapy component.
Costs and expected time commitment are discussed clearly and individually during the free telephone consultation, so you can make an informed decision without pressure.
Our Care Approach
tDCS neuromodulation is most effective when delivered as a structured program, rather than a one-off session. At Flow Health, care is organised into three clear phases, allowing you to understand the commitment before deciding to proceed.
Phase 1: Initial Suitability Assessment via Telephone
Every program begins with a free telephone consultation with one of our clinical staff.
This conversation allows us to:
Understand your symptoms and goals
Review medical history and safety considerations
Explain how tDCS may (or may not) help in your situation
Answer questions about time commitment and program structure
Phase 2: Initial Assessment & Planning
If appropriate, an initial in-clinic appointment is arranged This appointment is approximately 1 hour in duration with the Physiotherapist and includes complete baseline assessments, treatment planning and your first experience with tDCS to determine if this treatment is right for you.
An initial appointment fee is payable for this session.
Phase 3: In-Clinic tDCS & Rehabilitation
tDCS is delivered over a series of supervised sessions, using TGA-listed devices and delivered by trained clinicians.
During this phase:
Neuromodulation is paired with physiotherapy or task-specific training
Sessions are monitored and adjusted based on your response
Progress is reviewed using objective clinical measures
This phase focuses on movement retraining, and functional improvement.
tDCS results are optimal when a commitment is made to a recommended number of sessions (usually approximately 10-12). A treatment package that is individualised to your condition is payable prior to commencing these sessions.
Phase 4: Longer-Term Support & Review
For many people, the greatest benefit comes from ongoing consolidation, rather than stopping abruptly once early gains are made.
Longer-term support may include:
Training of patients and carers for in-home tDCS sessions
Progress reviews and reassessment
Adjustment of treatment parameters as needed
Guidance on exercises and self-management strategies
This phase helps support sustained improvement and realistic long-term outcomes.
Your Next Step
If you’re considering tDCS and want to understand whether it’s right for you, the best place to start is a conversation.
To book a free telephone consultation, fill in the form and we will be in touch with you shortly.