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Effects of Combined Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Oral Capsaicinoids on Swallowing Function: A
Ivy Cheng1,2, Sonja Suntrup-Krüger3,4
1Academic Unit of Human Communication, Learning, and Development, Faculty of Education, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
|May 6, 2026
Summary
Combining transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with oral capsaicinoids enhanced swallowing volume in healthy adults. This suggests cortical stimulation may amplify sensory input effects on swallowing biomechanics.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Physiology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Swallowing biomechanics can be influenced by cortical stimulation (tDCS) or oral capsaicinoids.
- The combined effects of these interventions on swallowing are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of combining tDCS with oral capsaicinoids on swallowing function in healthy individuals.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-one healthy participants underwent two randomized conditions: anodal tDCS plus capsaicinoids, and sham tDCS plus capsaicinoids.
- tDCS was applied over the right pharyngeal motor cortex.
- Swallowing function was assessed using the timed water swallow test (TWST) before and after interventions.
Main Results:
- Combined anodal tDCS and capsaicinoids significantly increased the volume per swallow compared to sham tDCS (p=0.003).
- No significant differences were observed in swallowing duration or capacity between the two conditions.
Conclusions:
- Combined anodal tDCS and oral capsaicinoids enhance the volume per swallow, indicating potential modulation of swallowing biomechanics.
- Cortical stimulation may augment the effects of peripheral sensory stimulation on the swallowing system.
