Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
TMS is a non-invasive technique that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is a safe outpatient procedure performed in your psychiatrist’s office. Beacon offers two TMS options: MagVenture and NeuroStar. Both are equally effective and proven options.
Is TMS right for me?
If you are suffering from depression, major mood disorders or extreme anxiety disorders and not finding relief from traditional medications and psychotherapy. TMS could be an excellent alternative to help you find relief.
How does TMS work?
TMS uses an almost MRI-strength treatment coil that generates a highly concentrated magnetic field. This laser-sharp focused magnetic field does not directly affect the whole brain but helps to treat the target areas in the brain that are thought to be the cause of the treated disorder, and eventually normalize brain circuits. Since every patient is unique, a highly-trained physician calculates a precise treatment dose and location. This provides personalized TMS for the patient based on many factors.
What can I expect from a TMS treatment?
An electromagnetic coil will be placed near your forehead. That coil will painlessly deliver a magnetic pulse that stimulates nerve cells in the brain involved in mood control and depression. During the magnetic pulses you’ll hear a clicking noise (similar to the sound of an MRI) and may feel taps on the head where the coil is. You will be fully awake and alert during the procedure.
How safe is TMS?
TMS is an outpatient procedure that does not require any sort of anesthesia or sedation. It does not cause any structural change of the brain. Common side effects include temporary pain or discomfort at or near the treatment site, temporary headaches, and nausea.
Which disorders are treated with TMS?
Currently, the FDA has approved TMS for the treatment of depression and OCD in adults. TMS has also been show as an effective treatment for:
- Depression (i.e., MDD)
- Major mood disorders (e.g., bipolar disorder)
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
