In various embodiments, a transcutaneous needle electrode and uses thereof are provided. In certain embodiments the needle electrodes comprise a plurality of electrically conductive needles, where the needles are solid, or where the needles are hollow and have a closed tip, where the needles have an average tip diameter less than about 10 μm and an average length greater than about 20-50 μm wherein the electrically conductive needles are electrically coupled to one or more electrical leads.
