In recent years, medical science has witnessed remarkable progress in the field of mental health treatment. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has emerged as a powerful non-invasive technique with the potential to transform the lives of individuals struggling with various mental health conditions such as depression, post traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and other mental health conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of TMS, explain how it works, discuss who would be a good candidate for treatment, delve into the risks involved, and shed light on the remission rates associated with this innovative therapy.

Understanding Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS):

TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific regions of the brain. It works on the principle of electromagnetic induction, where a rapidly changing magnetic field generates electrical currents within the brain. These currents target specific neural circuits and activate or modulate brain activity.

How Does TMS Work?

During a TMS session, the patient sits in a comfortable chair while a specially designed electromagnetic coil is placed near their scalp, typically over the left prefrontal cortex. When the device is activated, it delivers a series of brief magnetic pulses that reach the targeted brain region. These pulses generate small electrical currents, stimulating nerve cells and promoting increased neural activity in the targeted area.

Benefits of TMS:

1. Treatment of Depression: TMS has shown significant benefits in the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) that has not responded adequately to traditional antidepressant medications. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in alleviating depressive symptoms, improving mood, and enhancing overall well-being.
2. Anxiety Disorders: TMS has also shown promise in the treatment of anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By modulating neural activity in specific brain regions associated with anxiety, TMS can help reduce anxiety symptoms and improve overall functioning.
3. Fewer Side Effects: Compared to other treatment modalities like medication, TMS offers the advantage of fewer systemic side effects. Since the procedure is localized to the brain, it does not produce the same range of side effects that are commonly associated with pharmacological (medication) interventions.
4. Non-Invasive and Well-Tolerated: TMS is a non-invasive procedure, meaning it does not require surgery or the administration of anesthesia like ECT. It is generally well-tolerated by patients, with most reporting minimal discomfort during the sessions. This makes TMS a safe and convenient option for individuals seeking effective mental health treatment.

Who is a Good Candidate for TMS?

TMS is typically recommended for individuals who have not responded well to traditional treatments for depression or anxiety. Psychiatrists carefully evaluate each patient’s condition and medical history to determine if TMS is an appropriate treatment option, providing personalized recommendations based on individual needs.

Good candidates for TMS may include:

• Individuals with treatment-resistant depression (failure to respond to multiple antidepressant medications)
• Those unable to tolerate the side effects of medications
• Patients seeking an alternative to medication
• Individuals with anxiety disorders who have not responded to other treatments

Risks and Side Effects of TMS:

TMS is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects include mild scalp discomfort or headache, which typically resolve quickly after each session. Seizures are an extremely rare risk, occurring in less than 0.1% of cases. TMS is contraindicated for individuals with metallic objects or devices in or near the head, as the magnetic pulses can potentially cause harm.

Remission Rates and Long-Term Benefits:

At Resiliency Mind+Body Medicine, we utilize the BrainsWay Deep TMS™ system, which is the most advanced TMS technology available. Clinical studies have reported significant remission rates with Deep TMS treatment for depression, with approximately 60-70% of patients achieving remission (versus 40-50% seen in traditional TMS). These remission rates often persist for months after the completion of TMS therapy, offering long-term relief from depressive symptoms. There are now accelerated TMS protocols that do week-long “intensives” whereby several courses of treatment are delivered 10 times during the day for 5 days with remission rates of 80-90% (SAINT protocol) are achieved.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a safe, effective, and recommended treatment option for individuals struggling with mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. With ongoing research and development, many more conditions are demonstrating benefit from targeted TMS including PTSD, Autism spectrum, traumatic brain injury recovery, schizoaffecitve disorder, and dementia. With its non-invasive nature, minimal side effects, and proven efficacy, TMS offers new possibilities for individuals who have not responded well to traditional treatments. However, it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals to assess suitability, personalize treatment plans, and ensure ongoing monitoring for optimal results. Our providers at Resiliency Mind+Body Medicine are leading experts in the assessment, personalization and treatment with TMS. We offer insurance-covered BrainsWay Deep TMS™ treatments as well as off-label protocols for complete treatment plans at our Newport Beach location.