Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Could Help Rewire Your Brain for Better Mental Health

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a unique, non-invasive treatment option for major depressive disorder (MDD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This outpatient procedure uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in targeted areas of the brain, offering a new avenue for relief.

Did you know:

1. It’s nonsurgical and does not require sedation: The magnet is placed directly on top of the head and stimulates the brain region associated with MDD and OCD. Patients remain fully awake during the treatment and can return to their daily routines immediately afterward, including driving.

2. It uses technology similar to an MRI: The magnetic fields employed in TMS are comparable to those used in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. For this reason, it is not suitable for individuals with metal or electrical devices near or in their head, such as aneurysm clips or nerve stimulators.

3. It’s an FDA-cleared treatment: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared TMS for conditions like MDD, OCD, migraine headaches, and as a treatment for short-term smoking cessation.

4. It requires a series of sessions: A typical course of TMS involves daily sessions, five days a week. There are 36 sessions for MDD, and 29 for OCD. For those individuals diagnosed with both MDD and OCD, those courses can overlap and be given on the same day as each other. This consistent application helps produce gradual and lasting changes in brain activity.

5. It can be effective when other treatments fail: For those with treatment-resistant depression, studies show that about 60% of patients respond positively to TMS protocols. Treatment response also has good durability, meaning many people who respond positively to TMS continue to have benefits beyond a year or more.

If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about TMS, contact St. Luke’s Penn Foundation’s Sacred Heart office at 610-776-4838.