An overview of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is used to improve symptoms of major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), migraines, and to help people quit smoking when other treatments have not been effective. TMS delivers repeated magnetic pulses, known as repetitive TMS or rTMS. During an rTMS session, an electromagnetic coil is placed against the scalp to stimulate nerve cells in the brain regions involved in mood control and depression. TMS is generally safe and well-tolerated, with mild to moderate side effects that improve over time with more sessions.
What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation used for?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is used to treat major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and to help people quit smoking when other treatments have not been effective. It is also being researched for potential use in treating epilepsy. TMS works by delivering repeated magnetic pulses to nerve cells in the brain, with the specific type of TMS depending on the condition being treated. TMS is considered safe and well-tolerated, with common side effects being mild to moderate and improving over time.
How is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation conducted?
A TMS test involves placing an electromagnetic coil against the scalp to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, specifically targeting regions involved in mood control and depression. The healthcare provider will determine the best placement for the magnet and the appropriate dose of magnetic energy. During the test, the patient sits in a reclining chair, wears earplugs, and may experience a tapping sensation and clicking sound as the coil is switched on and off. The coil is moved around the head to find the location that causes twitching in the fingers or hands on the other side of the body, and the motor threshold is determined. Strong and weak pulses are alternated to find the appropriate energy needed to move the fingers or thumb during at least half of the attempts. TMS sessions typically last 4 to 6 weeks, with daily treatments five times a week.