Before we can answer the question “does TMS work”, lets gain an understanding of what TMS is, why you may want to explore TMS therapy, the advantages, risks, and more.

What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is commonly used as a treatment for depression and other mental health conditions when traditional therapies have not been effective. TMS is also being studied for its potential to help with conditions such as chronic pain, addiction, and Parkinson’s disease. The procedure is generally well-tolerated and does not require anesthesia, making it a safe and convenient option for many patients.

How it works

Durring a TMS session, a magnetic field is used to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. A coil is positioned on the scalp to administer electromagnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain believed to impact mood regulation. These pulses help to activate or inhibit brain activity, which can have a therapeutic effect on conditions like depression or anxiety. TMS helps regulate neurotransmitter levels in the brain and promote overall brain function, leading to a reduction in symptoms over time.

Why would someone undergo TMS therapy

Our personalized TMS treatments offer hope for those struggling with mental health conditions, particularly when traditional treatments haven’t provided relief. People typically choose TMS when they:

• Haven’t responded well to antidepressants
• Want a drug-free alternative with fewer side effects
• Need treatment during pregnancy
• Seek long-lasting relief from depression, anxiety, PTSD, or OCD
• Want to reduce their reliance on medications

What makes TMS especially appealing is its non-invasive nature and proven effectiveness. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately after each session, and many insurance plans now cover the treatment. Best of all, TMS offers the potential for lasting improvement without the ongoing need for daily medication

Advantages of TMS

TMS offers a breakthrough alternative for those who haven’t found relief through traditional treatments. Unlike medications, improvements can last months or years after completing the treatment course.

During Treatment:

• Non-invasive, drug-free therapy

• No sedation or downtime needed

• Continue daily activities

• No memory or cognitive side effects

• Most insurance plans provide coverage

Clinical Benefits:

• High success rate for treatment-resistant conditions
• Long-lasting relief
• Minimal side effects
• Can reduce or eliminate need for medications
• Safe to combine with other therapies

Risks

While TMS is generally safe and well-tolerated, it’s important to understand the potential risks. Most side effects are mild and decrease after the first few sessions.

Common side effects include:

• Temporary headache or scalp discomfort
• Lightheadedness
• Mild pain at the treatment site
• Tingling sensations during treatment

Rare but serious risks:

• Seizures (extremely rare, less than 0.1% of patients)
• Hearing issues if proper ear protection isn’t used
• Temporary changes in thinking or reaction time

TMS may not be suitable for people who:

• Have metal implants in or near the head
• Have a history of seizures
• Use certain types of medications
• Have certain neurological conditions

Always discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider to ensure TMS is safe for you. Most patients find the benefits far outweigh these manageable risks.

What to expect during treatment

Picture yourself relaxing in a comfortable chair, similar to a dentist’s office. You’ll wear earplugs, and we’ll position the magnetic coil against your head. The magic happens when we turn on the machine:

• You’ll feel and hear rhythmic tapping on your scalp
• The tapping follows a pattern: several seconds of pulses, then a brief pause
• You might experience mild scalp discomfort during the tapping (but not during pauses)
• You’ll stay completely awake and alert throughout

Common side effects include:

Thanks to advanced technology, treatment times are shorter than ever:

• Traditional sessions: 20 minutes
• Latest “theta burst” sessions: just 3.5 minutes

The best part? You can return to your normal activities immediately after each session. No downtime, no brain fog, just progressive improvement as you continue treatment.

Post-treatment care

Care right after treatment is simple! Follow our guide below to be aware of what you should expect and look out for.

Right after Treatment

• Resume normal activities immediately
• No downtime needed
• Treat minor headaches as needed
• Maintaining Progress:
• Continue therapy and medications as prescribed
• Keep healthy sleep and exercise routines
• Monitor your mood
• Stay in touch with your healthcare team

Most patients enjoy lasting benefits from TMS, but watching for returning symptoms and keeping regular follow-ups helps ensure long-term success.

Contact your provider if you notice significant mood changes or have concerns about your progress.

Clinical trials and studies

You can find various trials and studies on TMS therapy from the Mayo Clinic in the links below:

• An Open Label Trial of TMS Therapy for Bipolar Depression
• Perampanel Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
• Safety and Effectiveness of NeuroStar® Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy in Depressed Adolescents
• Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Evoked Potentials to Diagnose

Does TMS therapy really work?

Yes! Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy has been shown to be effective treating certain mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Many studies have demonstrated the positive impact of TMS therapy on reducing symptoms and improving overall quality of life for individuals struggling with these conditions. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of TMS therapy can vary from person to person, and it may not work for everyone. It is essential to consult with a mental health professional to determine if TMS therapy is a suitable treatment option for your specific needs.

Learn more about our Personalized Repetitive TMS (PrTMS) therapy

Our PrTMS treatments are even more effectve than traditional TMS treatments. follow the link to learn more here