What is TMS Therapy?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation or (TMS) Therapy, is a safe, non-invasive, non-medication treatment option for depression. The goal of TMS Therapy is to target areas of the brain that are under-active in depression sufferers. TMS Therapy uses magnets, similar to those used in an MRI, to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, specifically in the regions of the brain that control mood.
Is it safe?
TMS Therapy is safe and effective at treating depression. Unlike antidepressant medications, TMS Therapy has only a few, minor side effects. The most common side effect is mild, temporary discomfort at the treatment site. Other side effects include eye or tooth pain, muscle twitches, facial pain, or pain of the skin.
How does it work? What happens during the procedure?
TMS Therapy works by emitting targeted, pulsed magnetic fields to specific areas of the brain that are under-active in depression sufferers.
During treatment you will be comfortably seated. A small magnetic coiled will be placed gently against your head at the treatment site. Gentle magnetic stimulation is administered to target specific areas of the brain. The TMS machine will make clicking sounds during treatment, similar to that of an MRI machine.
Treatment has no effect on your alertness or memory, so you can drive yourself to and from appointments, and return to your normal activities immediately following treatment.
How long does treatment last?
Treatment is administered 5 days a week, and typically lasts 4 - 6 weeks. Each treatment session lasts approximately 20 - 40 minutes. Treatment times may vary, your physician will prescribe the course of treatment that is right for you.
What kind of results can I expect?
For many patients depression symptoms will significantly improve, or go away completely during treatment. Psychotherapy or antidepressant medications may be used as maintenance after a course of TMS Therapy. After 12 months, most patients continue to do well, although some patients may need another course of TMS Therapy. Individual results may vary.
Is TMS Therapy right for me?
When treating depression, psychotherapy and antidepressant medications are typically the first line of treatment. However, if you have experienced treatment resistant depression symptoms, or bothersome side effects from antidepressants, TMS Therapy may be an option for you.
Not all treatments are right or everyone. It’s important that you speak with your healthcare provider to determine if TMS Therapy is the best option for you.
How can I receive TMS Therapy?
TMS Therapy is available by prescription only. Speak to your physician to determine if TMS Therapy is the right form of treatment for you. If you are local the Cleveland/Akron are, contact Dr Chaturedi at Signature Psychiatry Associates to schedule an evaluation today.
For more information on TMs Therapy, the TMS section of our website.