Notifications
Clear all
Topic starter 02/08/2025 10:48 pm
🧲 Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that uses magnetic fields to activate specific areas of the brain—especially those involved in mood regulation and cognitive function.
⚙️ How It Works
- A device with an electromagnetic coil is placed against the scalp.
- It delivers magnetic pulses that pass through the skull and induce small electrical currents in targeted brain regions.
- These currents stimulate neurons, potentially improving symptoms of conditions like depression, OCD, and migraines.
🔁 Types of TMS
Type | Description |
---|---|
rTMS | Repetitive TMS—delivers pulses in rapid bursts |
Deep TMS | Uses specialized coils to reach deeper brain areas |
Theta Burst | Delivers bursts at specific frequencies for shorter sessions |
🧪 Clinical Applications
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Especially for patients who don’t respond to medication.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): FDA-approved deep TMS coils target relevant brain circuits.
- Smoking Cessation: Helps reduce cravings when other treatments fail.
- Neurological Conditions: Being explored for Parkinson’s, stroke recovery, and PTSD.
🌟 What to Expect
- Sessions last 30–60 minutes, typically 5 days a week for 4–6 weeks.
- You’ll remain awake and alert—no anesthesia needed.
- Common sensations include tapping or clicking sounds during stimulation.
⚠️ Side Effects
- Mild and temporary: scalp discomfort, headache, or facial muscle twitching.
- No memory loss or seizures, unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
TMS is like a magnetic whisper to your brain—nudging it back into balance without surgery or medication.