What Is TMS Therapy & Is It Right for You?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy is a procedure in which electromagnetic fields are used to treat depression. During this procedure, the magnetic fields emit repetitive pulses that stimulate nerve cells in the brain. Thus, the procedure is sometimes referred to as repetitive magnetic stimulation (rTMS).

In general, the procedure isn’t used as a first line treatment for depression, but may be considered when psychotherapy, medications, and other forms of therapy fail to adequately treat the symptoms of depression.

Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatment (CANMAT) recommend TMS as a first line of Neuro-stimulation methods to be used before Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), TDCS therapy.

If you’re considering TMS, here are some factors to bear in mind before you go.

The Effects

TMS therapy involves the delivery of painless magnetic pulses from an electromagnetic coil to the brain’s nerve cells. These pulses stimulate the nerves and neurological regions connected to mood control. Activation in these regions are known to ease depression. Essentially, these pulses change how the brain works. As these changes occur, the symptoms of depression lessen or disappear. This reduction in symptoms can occur within the first few weeks of treatment.

The Procedure

Since TMS treatments require medical equipment, they’re usually performed in a clinic or doctor’s office. Typically, daily sessions are performed during a four- to six-week period.

Before the treatment, patients may be required to have a full psychiatric and physical evaluation. These examinations are used to determine the severity of the depression symptoms and to assess whether the patient is an ideal candidate for TMS.

Fortunately, the treatment is noninvasive and performed on an outpatient basis. Patients can return to their normal activities after a treatment session. However, there may be an adjustment period after the first few sessions, as you may feel uneasy, tingly, or lightheaded after the procedure. Each session lasts for approximately 30 minutes and involves the following steps:

·         Identification of the areas on the head that are best for placing the magnetic coil (only performed in the first session)

·         Placement of earplugs into the ears and electromagnetic coil against the head

·         Mapping or switching the coil on and off to produce pulses (you’ll hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on the forehead)

·         Increasing the magnetic dose to determine your motor threshold (your hand will twitch when the threshold is reached, and your therapist may adjust this stimulation several times during a session or throughout your treatments)

The sessions will continue for the established duration and may be accompanied or followed by psychotherapy or medication. If the symptoms reoccur, then the therapy plan may be repeated.

The Risks

Repetitive TMS is noninvasive and doesn’t require implantation or surgery. Thus, it’s safer and has fewer side effects than other forms of magnetic therapy. However, some patients may still experience some minor side effects, including:

·         Lightheadedness

·         Headache

·         Scalp irritation

·         Twitching, tingling, or spasms in facial muscles

If you would like to learn more about TMS therapy, please contact us.