TMS Therapy
What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain. It is a promising option for individuals struggling with various forms of depression and other mental health conditions. TMS is particularly useful for those who have not found relief from traditional methods, such as medications or talk therapy.
Unlike medication, TMS works directly on brain circuits, specifically targeting regions associated with mood regulation and emotional control. It avoids systemic side effects, making it an appealing option for many patients seeking alternatives to psychiatric medication management.
Who is TMS Appropriate For?
TMS has several FDA-cleared indications, including:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): TMS has shown success for those with treatment-resistant depression in Chapel Hill, typically after two antidepressant medications have been tried without satisfactory results.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): TMS is also used to help people manage OCD symptoms, particularly when traditional therapies are insufficient.
- Anxious Depression: Many individuals with anxiety develop depression after long periods of unchecked symptoms. TMS is an option to address both anxiety and depression simultaneously.
- Adolescent Depression: TMS is now FDA-cleared as a first-line adjunctive treatment for adolescents suffering from depression, offering an option before additional medications are introduced.
For adults, insurance coverage usually requires patients to have tried at least two medications before TMS is considered. In contrast, adolescents may be able to access TMS as a first-line treatment for depression without trying medications first. This shift in approach reflects growing confidence in TMS as a safe and effective intervention for younger populations.
How is TMS Administered?
TMS treatment is straightforward and typically involves the following steps:
- Consultation and Preparation: Before treatment, a comprehensive evaluation is conducted by a healthcare provider to determine if TMS is an appropriate treatment option. No anesthesia is required, and patients remain awake throughout.
- Magnetic Coil Placement: The magnetic coil is placed over the scalp near the prefrontal cortex, an area involved in regulating mood. Magnetic pulses stimulate nerve cells in this region, enhancing communication between different brain circuits.
- Session Duration: A typical session lasts between 20 and 40 minutes. Most patients report hearing a tapping sound and feeling a mild tapping sensation on their scalp. Discomfort is generally minimal and subsides after the first few treatments.
- Frequency of Treatment: TMS is typically administered five times a week over a period of four to six weeks. As the treatment progresses, the effects are cumulative, leading to gradual improvements in mood and anxiety.
There is no sedation or impact on your alertness. You can read, watch TV, or discuss your treatment with your coordinator during the session, and you are free to drive home immediately afterward.
NeuroStar TMS System: A Trusted Option
NeuroStar is the most widely used TMS device and the first to receive FDA clearance.
Here are some key benefits of the NeuroStar system:
- Precision: NeuroStar utilizes advanced technology to deliver targeted magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain, ensuring effective treatment while minimizing stimulation to other brain areas.
- Real-Time Feedback: The system provides real-time data during treatment, allowing for adjustments and ensuring a consistent therapeutic experience for the patient.
- Comfort and Convenience: NeuroStar is designed with patient comfort in mind, offering ergonomic seating and adjustable coil placement for optimal comfort and support. Sessions are easily incorporated into a patient’s daily routine without significant disruption.
- Proven Efficacy: Clinical studies with the NeuroStar system have shown that approximately 83% of patients experience significant improvement in depressive symptoms, with about 62% achieving full remission. It’s a non-invasive, well-tolerated alternative for many who haven’t responded to medications.
Is TMS Right for You?
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, OCD, or anxiety that hasn’t responded to traditional approaches, TMS could be a life-changing option. It’s especially promising for adolescents looking to avoid the side effects of medications.
To determine if TMS is a suitable option, consider scheduling a comprehensive evaluation to assess your individual needs. One of our affordable psychiatrists or mental health specialists will assess your history and guide you through the process with compassion and clarity.