Transcranial Magnetic Stimuilation

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive medical procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. TMS has been used clinically since the 1980s, and it has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of depression, migraines, and pain disorders.

During a TMS session, the patient sits in a chair or reclines while a small, electromagnetic coil is held over the scalp. The coil produces rapidly changing magnetic fields that pass through the skull and stimulate nerve cells in the brain. The magnetic pulses are delivered in short bursts, typically lasting a few seconds each, and may be repeated several times during a single session.

TMS is generally well-tolerated and carries a low risk of serious side effects. However, some patients may experience mild discomfort or headaches during or after the procedure. In rare cases, TMS may cause seizures, but this risk is considered very low when the procedure is performed by a trained and qualified healthcare professional.

The length and frequency of TMS treatment will depend on the patient’s condition and response to treatment. Typically, TMS involves several sessions per week for several weeks, followed by maintenance treatments as needed.

While the exact mechanisms of TMS are still being studied, it is believed to work by increasing activity in certain areas of the brain and promoting the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in mood regulation. TMS has been shown to be effective for many patients with depression who have not responded to other treatments, and it is an exciting area of research for a wide range of neurological and psychiatric conditions.