Knowledge, Attitude, and Motivation Regarding Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) Among Rehabilitation Specialists in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

<b>Background:</b> Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has exhibited potential in augmenting motor functions, neuroplasticity, and cognitive abilities within neurological rehabilitation contexts. Despite these promising outcomes, the utilization of tDCS in both research and clinical environments in Saudi Arabia remains relatively unexplored. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and motivations of rehabilitation specialists in Saudi Arabia concerning tDCS. <b>Methods:</b> A cross-sectional observational study was conducted through an online questionnaire, involving 112 registered rehabilitation professionals. <b>Results:</b> While 58% of respondents acknowledged tDCS as a therapeutic tool, the overall knowledge level was modest, with a mean score of 3.0 ± 2.7 out of 9. Enhanced levels of knowledge were associated with individuals holding doctoral degrees (<i>p</i> = 0.02) and those with international training exposure (<i>p</i> = 0.03). Despite the limited knowledge base, an overwhelming 94.64% of participants displayed a neutral to positive attitude towards tDCS, with 52.7% recognizing its potential efficacy in neurological recovery. Principal obstacles to implementation included safety-related concerns (21.4%) and the need for specialized training (23.3%). <b>Conclusions:</b> Rehabilitation specialists in Saudi Arabia generally hold a favorable view of tDCS and demonstrate an eagerness to pursue further training. The results underscore the imperative for enhanced educational initiatives and practical training to address knowledge deficiencies and facilitate the seamless integration of tDCS into clinical routines. The implementation of structured training programs could not only reinforce adoption rates but also optimize the role of tDCS within rehabilitation.

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Publication Details

Journal
Healthcare
Published
2025-05-29
DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13111300
Citations
3
Primary Topic
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Studies
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
2.53

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article

Knowledge, Attitude, and Motivation Regarding Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) Among Rehabilitation Specialists in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Mohammed Alharbi, Ahmed A. Aldohbeyb, Madhawi Khalid Altaib, Alaa M. Albishi et al.
3 citations
Healthcare
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Studies
2.53
article

Knowledge, Attitude, and Motivation Regarding Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) Among Rehabilitation Specialists in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Mohammed Alharbi, Ahmed A. Aldohbeyb, Madhawi Khalid Altaib, Alaa M. Albishi, Ahmad O. Alokaily
article en
3 citations

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has exhibited potential in augmenting motor functions, neuroplasticity, and cognitive abilities within neurological rehabilitation contexts. Despite these promising outcomes, the utilization of tDCS in both research and clinical environments in Saudi Arabia remains relatively unexplored. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and motivations of rehabilitation specialists in Saudi Arabia concerning tDCS. <b>Methods:</b> A cross-sectional observational study was conducted through an online questionnaire, involving 112 registered rehabilitation professionals. <b>Results:</b> While 58% of respondents acknowledged tDCS as a therapeutic tool, the overall knowledge level was modest, with a mean score of 3.0 ± 2.7 out of 9. Enhanced levels of knowledge were associated with individuals holding doctoral degrees (<i>p</i> = 0.02) and those with international training exposure (<i>p</i> = 0.03). Despite the limited knowledge base, an overwhelming 94.64% of participants displayed a neutral to positive attitude towards tDCS, with 52.7% recognizing its potential efficacy in neurological recovery. Principal obstacles to implementation included safety-related concerns (21.4%) and the need for specialized training (23.3%). <b>Conclusions:</b> Rehabilitation specialists in Saudi Arabia generally hold a favorable view of tDCS and demonstrate an eagerness to pursue further training. The results underscore the imperative for enhanced educational initiatives and practical training to address knowledge deficiencies and facilitate the seamless integration of tDCS into clinical routines. The implementation of structured training programs could not only reinforce adoption rates but also optimize the role of tDCS within rehabilitation.

HealthcareVol. 13(11)
Taibah University (SA), King Saud University (SA)
King Saud University
Openalex Percentile: Top 10%
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Studies
2.53
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