Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that works with the brain to treat neuropsychiatric disorders. TMS can help those who are suffering from anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and multiple sclerosis.
TMS can be used in conjunction with other therapies to improve treatment of these disorders. TMS is a safe and effective way to treat these disorders, but it is not permanent. If you are considering TMS as an option, it is best to speak with your doctor about your diagnosis, and to discuss your options. A doctor may also recommend psychotherapy or antidepressants before starting treatment.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) works by delivering magnetic impulses to the brain. It is an alternative to electroconvulsive therapy, which is often ineffective. The device is not invasive and is available in dozens of countries around the world. Typical treatments last between five and sixty minutes. Patients can resume their normal daily activities after the treatment is complete.
What Does a Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Do?
To begin the procedure, a patient will sit in a chair that is designed for the procedure. He or she will wear earplugs and may be asked to remove any metal jewelry. Earplugs are necessary to prevent ear damage from the magnets. They also help to minimize the clicking sound produced by the device.
During the procedure, the technician will hold a magnetic coil over the patient’s head. This coil is used to deliver stimulating pulses to the patient’s brain. These pulses are very small. There are different types of magnetic coils used for TMS, and each elicits a different magnetic field pattern. One type, called repetitive TMS, uses repetitive pulses. Another, called theta-burst stimulation, uses a triplet of five-Hz bursts.
TMS is an outpatient procedure, and is performed by a TMS physician or technician. Some patients report mild pain and headaches during the procedure, but the majority of patients experience very little discomfort. However, if you experience seizures or severe headaches, it is important to stop treatment immediately.
The treatment is typically administered three or five times per week, for four to six weeks. Follow-up sessions are needed if the symptoms return. In some cases, the patient may need a second or third treatment to completely clear up their symptoms. For people with multiple sclerosis, TMS can also help alleviate spasticity, which makes it difficult to move and walk.
When you go in for your first TMS session, you will need to wear earplugs. Before the treatment begins, the technician will measure your head to determine the best placement of the coil. Once the coil is placed, the TMS machine will make a clicking noise. The clicking sound is meant to help you feel that the magnetic impulses are being released. You may experience a tingly sensation, which should subside as the TMS treatment ends.
Depending on the type of TMS you are having, the treatment may take between 30 and 60 minutes. After the treatment, you will be able to drive yourself home.