TMS Therapy in Staunton, VA

TMS stands for transcranial magnetic stimulation. TMS uses non-invasive electromagnetic fields, similar to those produced by an MRI machine, to stimulate or inhibit the brain. During TMS therapy,a magnetic field is administered in very short pulses to a specific part of the head to activate or inhibit those underlying brain cells. The course of treatment may vary depending on target symptoms; it may be about 19-37 minutes per session, 3-5 times a week, over 4-6 weeks.

An electromagnetic coil is held against the head near an area of the brain that is thought to be involved in the regulation of mood, anxiety, or other symptoms. Then, short electromagnetic pulsesat a particular frequency are administered through the coil. The magnetic pulses easily pass through the skull and cause small electrical currents to stimulate or inhibit nerve cells in the targeted brain region. In turn, the stimulated cells have an impact on the brain circuits involved in certain symptoms. Because this type of pulse generally does not reach further than two inches into the brain, we can select which parts of the brain will be affected and which will not be. The magnetic field is about the same strength as that of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.

No. In the large majority of patients, TMS is well tolerated with only minor discomfort on the scalp where TMS is applied. Most people describe TMS as a light to moderate tapping sensation in the spot where the coil is placed.

TMS Therapy is contraindicated for use in patients who have active or inactive implants including device leads, pacemakers, deep brain stimulators, cochlear implants, and vagus nerve stimulators. People with a history of epilepsy or seizure activity, or who are currently pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive, should discuss options with their provider.

Most patients report increased energy, focus, and motivation to perform activities in as little as 5-10 sessions. Many patients have described TMS therapy as life changing. Oftentimes, family members will notice effects before the patient does.

Most patients start experiencing relief after 5-10 sessions, but this can vary greatly depending on the severity of the symptoms and the individual’s unique genetic makeup. Some may not feel the effects of TMS until as many as 40 sessions, while some may feel the effect almost immediately after their first.

The most commonly reported side effects during clinical trials were headache and scalp discomfort.

These potential side effects were typically mild to moderate, and were less common after the first week of treatment. During clinical trials, less than 5% of patients treated with TMS discontinued treatment due to side effects. If necessary, headaches from TMS can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications, as indicated by your physician. If the side effects persist, the strength of the TMS pulses can be temporarily reduced to ensure the comfort of the patient. Let your treatment provider know about any side effects you experience.

Yes, patients are able to resume normal activities immediately after the treatment.

Patients may be asked to stop the use of Bupropion before beginning TMS, and to abstain from alcohol during the course of their TMS treatment.

TMS Therapy is safe and easy to tolerate. Because it is not a depression medication, TMS Therapy does not have the same side effects that are associated with traditional antidepressant medications. There are no negative effects on memory or sleep so you can drive yourself to and from treatment.  There is a rare risk of seizure associated with TMS therapy that occurs in .01% of people.

Do you worry about side effects from depression medications? Have you switched medications for depression due to side effects? Are you interested in a proven, non-drug therapy for depression? If you answered yes to any of these questions, TMS Therapy may be right for you.

TMS Therapy is covered by most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Tricare.