What Is TMS Therapy?

How Does TMS Work?

TMS therapy for depression aims to stimulate the brain with magnetic currents, working completely outside of the body to affect central nervous system activity. TMS devices are placed on an individual’s head and target specific areas of the brain that can influence depression through the use of powerful, highly localized magnetic fields or pulses. TMS is an increasingly popular choice for anyone who is struggling with depression, especially for those who have had an inadequate response to medications and therapy in the past. This treatment does not require anesthesia or sedation of any kind and is generally well tolerated by patients. TMS should not be confused with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), also known as “shock therapy”, which requires sedation and is associated with negative side effects such as memory loss.

Is TMS Therapy a Reliable Treatment Option for Depression?

TMS therapy for depression is FDA-approved, safe, effective, and well-tolerated. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation side effects are minimal, with some patients experiencing involuntary eye blinking or facial muscle contraction during treatment and some cases of minor headaches shortly after treatment. All side effects subside within 24 hours in almost all cases.

Statistics show that approximately 50% to 60% of people with depression who have not responded well to medications or standard therapy experience a significant response to TMS therapy. Due to the wide variability of TMS machines, clinical technique, protocol, and location of stimulation, relief has been shown to be as high as 80% in some practices. Nearly one third of patients in clinical research experience a full remission of symptoms. It is important to remember that there is no known cure for depression and other mood disorders, and while TMS is an effective treatment, it should not be viewed or advertised as a cure. Length of symptom remission and the degree of symptom return are influenced by a variety of factors including lifestyle, genetics, and use of other treatments. Like most treatments for depression and other mood disorders, TMS therapy has a high recurrence rate, though individuals can experience clinical results for many months and oftentimes a full year. Some individuals also opt into subsequent rounds of treatment, which can help maintain or improve results long-term.

Why TMS Therapy For Depression Over Conventional Treatments?

Due to the novel and unique mechanism by which TMS works, it is a versatile treatment option that can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with other treatments. Many who choose TMS therapy for depression are encouraged by its high efficacy with a relative lack of bothersome side effects. Conventional medications and antidepressants can cause fatigue, emotional flatness, weight gain/loss, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, and other reactions that can discourage people from continuing. In addition to a slew of negative side effects, in many cases, traditional medicines are simply ineffective. The most common Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation side effects are mild to moderate scalp discomfort and headaches shortly after treatment. Additionally, TMS is covered by most insurance providers.