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TMS, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is a noninvasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain linked to mood and mental health. It’s often recommended for people who haven’t found relief from depression or anxiety through medication alone. Here’s what to expect during a TMS session:
Learning How TMS Works
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS, is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. For individuals with depression, certain areas of the brain that regulate mood show less electrical activity. TMS targets these underactive regions to increase electrical activity and help restore communication between different parts of the brain.
Unlike antidepressant medications that affect the entire brain chemistry, TMS focuses precisely on the areas responsible for depression symptoms. The targeted approach aims to restore normal function without the systemic side effects often associated with medication. The goal of the treatment is to reawaken these “sleeping” regions of the brain and improve mood regulation over a series of sessions.
Preparing for the First Treatment
To prepare for your first TMS session, there are a few fundamental steps you will follow. The clinical team will guide you through the process to make sure the treatment is right for you. Here is what you can generally expect:
- The clinical team will review your medical history and current medications to make sure TMS is a safe option for you.
- You can eat and drink as you normally would before your appointment.
- It is helpful to remove any magnetic-sensitive items, like jewelry, before you arrive.
- Upon arrival, you will check in and then be led to a private treatment room.
- You will be seated in a comfortable chair, similar to one you would find in a dentist’s office.
The team will provide all the necessary information to help you feel ready for the treatment.
Undergoing the TMS Procedure
During the TMS treatment, a technician will be with you to manage the session. The procedure is carefully controlled to deliver a precise therapeutic effect. Here is a breakdown of what happens during the treatment session:
- The technician will place a TMS cap on your head and position the magnetic coil over the targeted area of your brain.
- Once the coil is in place, it will begin delivering magnetic pulses.
- These pulses often feel like a light tapping on your head, and you will hear a clicking sound with each pulse.
- You will be awake and alert for the entire session and can communicate with the technician if needed.
- A typical session lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.
After the magnetic pulses are complete, the technician will remove the cap. The treatment is then finished for the day.
Recovering After Treatment
After your TMS session, you can return to your daily routine immediately. There is no recovery time needed, and the side effects are generally minimal. Most people do not experience significant discomfort following the treatment.
You will be able to drive yourself home or back to work directly after your appointment. The most common side effect is a mild headache or scalp discomfort at the coil site. This usually subsides shortly after the session. Treatment plans often involve sessions five days a week for about six weeks to achieve the best results.
Schedule Your TMS Appointment
Understanding what happens during a TMS session can help you prepare for the treatment. From the initial preparation to the treatment and the post-session experience, the procedure offers a targeted way to address the neurological aspects of depression. If you are contemplating TMS as a treatment option, contact a trusted provider near you to schedule your appointment today.
