What is the history of
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?
Since the 1980s, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has been used to study the nerve fibers that carry information about movements from the brain to the spinal cord and on to the muscles. In the late 1990s, physicians began to explore the therapeutic potential of TMS for the treatment of a variety of diseases, with depression being the most thoroughly studied to date. Since then, researchers have started looking in to using TMS for the successful treatment of many new indications such as OCD, bipolar depression, addiction, and stroke rehabilitation (just to name a few).
Why does TMS work?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a medical treatment which is delivered by a device that generates changing magnetic fields using a treatment coil. These fields are rapidly switched on and off and reach a few centimeters into the brain beneath the coil. For depression, the treatment targets the prefrontal cortex. The magnetic fields can create electrical activity in nerve cells. While the exact mechanism of action is unknown, it could be related to this direct electrical activity or indirect effects on neurotransmitters. It is well accepted by researchers and clinicians that TMS affects not only the targeted prefrontal cortex but also connected areas of the brain such as the cingulate, amygdala, hypothalamus, and thalamus.
Who administers TMS?
At Oasis TMS, TMS therapy is prescribed by a physician and administered by a qualified TMS treater. The initial motor threshold is determined by both the physician and a TMS treater. All of our TMS treaters are TMS credentialed by a qualified trainer and are supervised by the TMS physician. The patient is closely monitored during treatment and may stop the treatment at any time.
How long is a TMS Procedure?
TMS therapy involves a series of treatment sessions. Treatment sessions take just under 19 minutes in the chair, se we ask patients to plan to be at the office for about 30 minutes. Patients receive TMS 5 days a week, for 6 weeks, amounting to 36 sessions.
Does TMS Work?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a medical treatment which is delivered by a device that generates changing magnetic fields using a treatment coil. These fields are rapidly switched on and off and reach a few centimeters into the brain beneath the coil. For depression, the treatment targets the prefrontal cortex. The magnetic fields can create electrical activity in nerve cells. While the exact mechanism of action is unknown, it could be related to this direct electrical activity or indirect effects on neurotransmitters. It is well accepted by researchers and clinicians that TMS affects not only the targeted prefrontal cortex but also connected areas of the brain such as the cingulate, amygdala, hypothalamus, and thalamus.
Still have questions?
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