Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy
At Providence, we understand that many patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) find it difficult to regain their quality of life from talk and/or medication therapies alone. This is why we offer an advanced FDA-approved treatment: transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy.
TMS is a non-invasive treatment for patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). The treatment uses gentle, highly targeted magnetic pulses – similar to those used in MRI screenings, to produce changes in brain activity.
TMS therapy consists of a total of 36 treatments, Monday through Friday, over the course of seven weeks. Each visit lasts approximately 20-30 minutes.
Symptoms of MDD are often caused by a decrease in brain activity in the left prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain that helps regulate mood. TMS therapy delivers targeted magnetic pulses with pinpoint accuracy to stimulate the prefrontal cortex. The increase in neural activity can help improve mood and manage symptoms of depression.
For some people with MDD, standard treatments aren’t effective. TMS is typically prescribed when patients haven’t been helped by medications and psychotherapy/talk therapy.
TMS is delivered through a small electromagnetic coil that rests on the patient’s head. The device emits rapid magnetic pulses that painlessly pass through the skull and stimulate brain activity.
Patients remain awake and alert during TMS therapy sessions, which take about 20-30 minutes to complete. Patients can resume normal activities immediately after a session.
A trained technician closely supervises treatment. Full treatment consists of multiple sessions per week over several weeks. The effects of TMS increase as treatment progresses. Some patients may need occasional, ongoing treatments.
Not all insurance plans cover TMS therapy. It’s always best to check with your insurance provider before scheduling an appointment. If you’re not sure if you qualify, contact your doctor’s office for more information.
The most commonly reported side effects with TMS therapy are:
- Fatigue
- Mild discomfort near the treatment site
- Minor headache lasting less than two hours
- Spasm or twitching of facial muscles during the therapy session
- Tingling
Most side effects typically subside after the first two weeks of treatment.
Clinical trials have shown that TMS therapy is a safe and effective treatment to help patients achieve long-term remission from major depressive disorder (MDD).
It’s important to speak with your doctor or mental health professional about any health conditions or implants that could interfere with treatment or affect your safety during a TMS session. We take your health and safety seriously, and certain medical factors can make TMS therapy unsuitable.
Tell your doctor or mental health professional about any of the following conditions:
- Brain damage from a tumor, stroke or traumatic brain injury
- Frequent or severe headaches
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Other mental health conditions, such as substance abuse, bipolar disorder or psychosis
- Pregnancy, or a plan to become pregnant
- Prior repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) treatment
TMS therapy isn’t recommended for individuals with:
- Aneurysm clips or coils
- Any magnetic or metal implants
- Bullet fragments
- Cochlear implants
- Deep brain or vagus nerve stimulators
- Electrodes used for brain monitoring
- Implantable electrical devices, including pacemakers or medication pumps
- Stents