What is Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

What is Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)?

• TMS is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain (the frontal lobe) to improve symptoms of depression. TMS is used when other depression treatments haven't been effective or when someone does not like the side effects of medications.

Is TMS FDA approved? 

• TMS is an FDA-approved device proven safe and effective for the treatment of severe depression. TMS is included in the American Psychiatric Association Practice Guidelines for the treatment of patients with major depression. 

How does TMS work?

• During a TMS session, an electromagnetic coil is placed against your scalp near your forehead. The device painlessly delivers a magnetic pulse that stimulates the nerve cells. This will deliver focused magnetic pulses to a targeted area of the brain, stimulating the areas that affect your mood control and depression. The pulses won’t hurt you or damage your skin or hair. These pulses cause changes in the brain that help improve your depression. 

How long is TMS?

• TMS treatment requires 36 total sessions. These sessions take up to 8 weeks to complete. TMS sessions typically last 30 minutes each and are administered daily for the first 6 weeks. Depending on your results, your doctor may recommend additional TMS maintenance sessions.

How long is the recovery time?

• There is no recovery time. TMS is administered in the doctor's office. It is a non-invasive treatment and does not require sedation or anesthesia. During the treatment, you will be fully awake so you can return home or to work immediately following the procedure. 

Will TMS work for me? 

• You may benefit from TMS treatment if you have severe depression that has not improved with antidepressant medication. An evaluation by one of our doctors can determine if TMS is an option for you. TMS treatment is available by prescription only and is administered under the supervision of a doctor. If you think TMS could be for you, you can make an appointment here! 

If you’re still experiencing depressive symptoms even with treatment, find out if you’re a candidate for TMS by calling A Ray of Hope: Great Lakes Institute of Neurology and Psychiatry, or by requesting an evaluation through the online booking feature today.