What Is TMS Therapy & Is It Right for You?

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What Is TMS Therapy Is It Right for You?
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• 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).

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• In general, the procedure isnt 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.

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• 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 youre considering TMS, here are some factors
  to bear in mind before you go.

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The Effects

• TMS therapy involves the delivery of painless
  magnetic pulses from an electromagnetic coil to
  the brains nerve cells. These pulses stimulate
  the nerves and neurological regions connected to
  mood control. Activation in these regions are
  known to ease depression.

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• 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.

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The Procedure

• Since TMS treatments require medical
  equipment, theyre usually performed in a clinic
  or doctors office. Typically, daily sessions are
  performed during a four- to six-week period.

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• 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.

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• 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

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• 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

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• 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

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• 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.

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The Risks

• Repetitive TMS is noninvasive and doesnt
  require implantation or surgery. Thus, its safer
  and has fewer side effects than other forms of
  magnetic therapy. However, some patients may
  still experience some minor side effects,
  including

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• Lightheadedness
• Headache
• Scalp irritation
• Twitching, tingling, or spasms in facial
  muscles
• If you would like to learn more about TMS
  therapy, please contact us.