Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that stimulates regions of the brain to treat the symptoms of depression. Similar to an MRI, a TMS procedure uses a magnetic field generator which sends pulsed magnetic fields to the part of your brain thought to control mood. This painless outpatient procedure is done in about 30-45 minutes daily over a period of 4-6 weeks. TMS is a proven and effective antidepressant treatment that has been approved by the FDA since 2008.
How Does TMS Work?
For many patients with depression, the area in the brain called the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is believed to be underactive. For people that can’t find relief with therapy or medication alone, TMS can be used to stimulate the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and treat depression. During a TMS procedure, an insulated magnetic coil is placed over your head and it emits tiny magnetic pulses that affect your brain’s neurons. The procedure is completed in the doctor’s office while you are awake and alert. Fortunately, TMS does not affect or impair your ability to go on with your normal daily activities.
TMS Treats Depression
Depression is a mental disorder that can be characterized by low mood, loss of interest in normally enjoyable activities, low self-esteem, low energy, and other devastating symptoms. If left untreated, depression can have a serious negative effect on a person’s life. Work, friends, school, or health may fall by the wayside as depression takes hold.
Luckily, TMS treats depression and can be used instead of or in conjunction with standard treatments. Typically, patients suffering from depression are treated with counseling and antidepressant medication. However, medication can affect people differently and has been known to have serious side effects. TMS treats depression by using painless magnetic pulses rather than potentially harmful drugs. TMS patients have demonstrated improved mood in just a few short weeks rather than the longer lifecycle of traditional medications.
Where to Find TMS Treatment
Mid City TMS is the country’s premier TMS treatment facility. As pioneers of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation since 2009, the doctors at Mid City TMS have been able to make a difference in the lives of thousands. Contact us today for your TMS consultation.
