Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Is your current depression treatment working for you? Have you tried antidepressant medications without finding any relief? There is hope with TMS.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a drug-free, in-office treatment. It’s appropriate for certain patients who have been diagnosed with depressive disorders, including major depressive disorder. For patients who are good candidates for TMS, this treatment can help break the cycle of depressive symptoms.
What is Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS)?
TMS (also called rTMS) isn’t a medication, doesn’t require anesthesia, and it isn’t an invasive procedure. It involves applying magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain via a device with an electromagnetic coil. These magnetic fields stimulate the nerve cells in the brain in order to affect how the brain works. Specifically, TMS works by targeting the nerve cells in the region of the brain that regulates mood.
Treatment for Depression Customized to Your Needs
Depression affects more than 16 million adults in the U.S. every year. People of all ages and all walks of life may be affected by depression. Still, each patient is unique, and so every TMS treatment is customized to meet the patient’s unique needs.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy can successfully affect the brain right from the first session. However, patients are not likely to notice a significant difference after just one session. Typically, relief from depression symptoms becomes apparent after three or more weeks of treatment.
What to Expect with TMS Therapy
In most cases, patients can expect to have TMS therapy five days per week. Each session lasts about 20-40 minutes, depending on your needs. We follow FDA treatment guidelines for every patient we treat.
You may achieve favorable results after three weeks. However, your provider may recommend that you receive four to six weeks of treatment. A typical course of treatment is about 5 weeks long.
During your treatment sessions, you’ll be fully awake and able to read or watch TV. Afterwards, you can return to your regular activities with no restrictions.
50% to 60% of patients who try TMS therapy do enjoy favorable results. One-third of these patients go into complete remission.
Note that the remission of symptoms may not be permanent. On average, TMS patients enjoy continued results for a little longer than one year after stopping their treatment. At that point, patients may opt to repeat a course of treatment.
Is TMS Right for You?
Only your provider can determine if Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is appropriate for you. Many patients with treatment resistant depression can benefit from this alternative option. Your provider needs to know your medical history, including your history of surgeries and any other medical conditions you may have. TMS is well tolerated by most people.
TMS cannot be used by those with the following:
- Patients with epilepsy
- Those with a history of head injuries
- Patients with serious neurological conditions
- Those with metal implants in the head/neck/chest region
Want to Learn if TMS is Right for You?
Fill out the form below and one of our providers will get in touch.
Possible Side Effects of TMS
Side effects following TMS therapy are minimal. The most common side effects are minor scalp discomfort and lightheadedness. In very rare cases, treatment does also carry a risk of seizures. For this reason, it is important to discuss your full health history with your mental health provider prior to treatment.
Hope is in Reach
Integrated Behavioral Health is now offering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation at our locations in Decatur, Madison, Montgomery, and Muscle Shoals. Our team includes compassionate doctors and nurse practitioners. They believe in providing evidence-based psychiatric care that is customized to the unique needs of each individual patient.
New and current patients can call (256) 975-4162 to schedule an appointment. We also offer consultations via our secure telemedicine platform.