TMS Q&A
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is FDA-approved and is a cutting-edge brain therapy that effectively treats depression and anxiety. TMS is non-invasive and uses magnetic energy pulses to stimulate brain cells in specific areas of the brain to improve mood, memory, sleep, and cognitive function.
There is a newer and better form of TMS called theta burst stimulation (TBS) that is more efficient and effective compared to standard TMS. Treating with TBS cuts the treatment time for depression to just 10 days, compared to 6 weeks of near daily treatments with standard TMS. Each TBS protocol takes only 40 seconds to a little over 3 minutes. This means a single TMS treatment session averages only 15 minutes (compared to 30-40 minutes with the standard approach). TBS is also more comfortable since it mimics natural brain wave frequencies to help brain cells reconnect and restore function.
If you do not have a pacemaker, implantable medical device, aneurysm clips/coils in the head or poorly controlled seizures, you can do TMS!
TMS has been around for over three decades and has been proven to be safe and well tolerated for appropriate candidates. During treatment, the magnetic pulses feel like a “woodpecker” is tapping on your head. The intensity of the pulses is adjustable, and you have full control over the level of intensity you prefer for the treatment. Most people rest comfortably in a reclining chair during treatment sessions.
TMS is not “shock therapy” otherwise known as electroconvulsive therapy. You do not need to be sedated nor take any medications to receive the treatment. Effects of treatment are long-lasting, and the duration of effects depends on the severity and complexity of the condition being treated.
Most people can return to their usual activities immediately after a session. You can drive after treatment.
The results for treating depression with theta burst stimulation have been overwhelmingly positive. At Brain Body Balance TMS, Dr. Helen Ly offers a personalized treatment plan for her clients. The success rate at her clinic for treating depression and anxiety is over 90%. Dr. Ly also specializes in treating other neurobehavioral problems such as cognitive dysfunction (brain fog), post-concussion syndrome, poor quality sleep, post-traumatic stress disorder and chronic pain.
For more information, visit us at IHAclinic.com