What Does TMS Therapy Treat?
Learn more about what TMS therapy is, what it treats, and the different types of beneficial methods here.
Table of Contents
What is TMS Therapy?
TMS therapy is a medical treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain. TMS is thought to work by altering brain activity in the areas of the brain involved in mood regulation and depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is typically used to treat depression and other mental health conditions. TMS’s clinical efficacy as an antidepressant has been thoroughly proven.1
TMS therapy stimulates nerve cells using electromagnetic pulses, which may lessen the symptoms of neurological or mental health conditions. TMS is a painless, non-invasive procedure that doesn’t need sedation or anesthesia. TMS is mostly used to treat patients who don’t improve after receiving psychotherapy and antidepressant medication.2
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Understanding TMS
TMS is an FDA-cleared outpatient treatment for depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Small electric currents created by the magnetic pulses affect the neurons firing patterns, changing brain patterns. There are some potential side effects of TMS therapy, although these are generally mild and temporary. Some individuals may experience headaches, scalp discomfort, and rarely seizures during treatment.
How TMS Therapy Works
A magnetic coil is placed against the head and produces a magnetic field that stimulates the brain without causing any pain or discomfort. The therapy is thought to alter brain activity in the areas of the brain involved in mood regulation and depression, leading to improvements in symptoms. The therapy is typically administered on an outpatient basis, with sessions lasting about 30-60 minutes each.
TMS Therapy Is
TMS therapy boasts many potential benefits. This form of therapy is:
- Non-invasive
- Non-systemic
- Safe
- Proven
- Targeted
- Well-tolerated
Conditions That Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Can Treat
- Anxiety
- PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Parkinson’s disease
- ADHD
- Addiction/substance abuse disorders
- Alcohol addiction
Types of TMS therapy
There are many types of TMS, which use different patterns and frequencies for the magnetic fields. There are two main types of TMS, which are detailed below.
Deep TMS
Deep TMS (dTMS) delivers magnetic pulses at a deeper level in the brain using a specialized coil that can more easily reach the deeper brain structures. It is used to treat severe depression and can be more effective when other treatments have failed. Deep TMS is a newer form of TMS and is not yet widely available.
Who Can Benefit from TMS
TMS is beneficial for individuals who have not responded well to other forms of treatment. TMS therapy has relatively few side effects, making it a good option for individuals who:
- Do not have a seizure disorder or a history of seizures
- Wish to avoid medication
- Are planning to become pregnant
- Do not have any metal implant within the head
How Does TMS Work in The Brain to Treat Depression?
During a TMS treatment, a machine generates a magnetic field that passes through the skull and into the brain. This stimulates the neurons, which can help to improve symptoms of depression. Research has shown that TMS can improve mood and increase energy levels.
Neurostar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulator
Stimulates Neurons (Nerve Cells) In The Brain
TMS changes the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that play a key role in regulating mood, and by altering their levels, TMS therapy may be able to improve symptoms of depression. When stimulated, neurons can change their activity and communicate with other neurons.
TMS Allows Neurons To Change The Way They Communicate With Each Other
TMS can result in improved brain activity, connectivity, and function, which can help to decrease symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions.
Who Should Avoid This Treatment?
TMS is a safe and well-tolerated treatment for depression and other mental health conditions. However, some people should avoid TMS or be careful when considering it. People who should avoid TMS include those that have:
- Deep brain stimulators
- Electrodes
- Neck or brain stents
- Metal plates
- Cochlear implants
- Permanent piercings
Get TMS Therapy at Profound Treatment
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or other mental health conditions, the staff at Profound Treatment may be able to help.
Reach Out and Begin Profound Healing
At Profound Treatment, we offer TMS and other types of therapy to help patients manage their mental health challenges and improve their overall quality of life. Our trained professionals will work with you to determine if TMS therapy is right for you.
We will provide ongoing support and guidance throughout your treatment. If you are struggling with depression or other mental health issues, Profound Treatment can help. Contact us today to learn more and to schedule a consultation.
(310) 929-9546
