Why are searches for TMS clinics and TMS therapists near me on the rise? People are discovering the implications of TMS for OCD, TMS for PTSD, TMS for autism, TMS for headaches and depression, and more. While many people are being exposed to both anecdotal and clinically based information about TMS from TMS therapy reviews for the first time, the truth is that the public is still largely in the dark about this promising treatment path. This article covers what you need to know!

Understanding TMS: A Gateway to Enhanced Mental Well-being

TMS stands for transcranial magnetic stimulation. This is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for TMS to treat depression in cases where other treatments have not been effective. The FDA has also approved TMS OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) treatments. A more intensive form of TMS that is known as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been approved by the FDA as a short-term treatment for smoking cessation.

The Procedure: What Happens During a TMS Session?

TMS for OCD and depression involves delivering repeated magnetic pulsations to specific areas of the brain. However, there is no cutting or insertion during this process. It is 100% noninvasive and external. During a TMS session, an electromagnetic coil is placed on the outside of the scalp. Once activated, the coil sends magnetic pulses that stimulate nerve cells in regions of the brain associated with mood. This acts to “revive” brain regions that have decreased activity that is associated with depressive symptoms.

Beyond Approved Uses: Exploring Off-Label TMS Treatments

While TMS is currently only approved by the FDA for treatments related to OCD, depression, and smoking cessation, TMS clinics aren’t necessarily limited in why they can provide TMS treatments. When TMS is used for treating conditions beyond the scope of FDA approval, this is what’s known as off-label use.

One common example of off-label use is TMS for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). TMS providers generally use a revised form of TMS called MeRT treatment for autism. MeRT treatments are highly customized applications of TMS that still utilize the noninvasive, pain-free, and drug free methods associated with standard TMS. After mapping the brain using EEG or qEEG, practitioners are able to create tailored treatments. While MeRT therapy for autism is considered an off-label application, any licensed provider you find when searching for a TMS therapist near me will utilize FDA-cleared devices.

One growing area of interest is the use of TMS in conjunction with Spravato (esketamine). Previously, TMS was often thought of as a non-pharmacologic alternative to Spravato that also restores the balance of specific neurotransmitters in the brain. Patients were generally told to settle for an “either/or” approach. However, emerging research is showing that combining the two therapies can result in rapid onset relief that actually combines the “instant” benefits of ketamine infusions with the long-term benefits of TMS therapy.

A version of brain stimulation similar to TMS called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is also being used as an off-label treatment for depression, anxiety, and cognitive challenges related to multiple sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and other movement disorders. During tDCS therapy, noninvasive brain stimulation is applied via a low-grade electrical current. Electrodes placed on the scalp using headsets are capable of either reducing or increasing brain activity in the specific regions being stimulated. One of the main benefits of this form of TMS is that it allows for mobility during treatment. For example, a patient would be able to perform exercises under the direction of a physical therapist while specific areas of the brain are being stimulated.

Integrating TMS with Other Therapies: A New Era of Mental Health Care

TMS has many benefits that make it an exciting option for people facing a variety of mood-related and cognitive challenges. While it is often prescribed only after other treatments have failed, a person seeking relief doesn’t need to suffer before proactively connecting with TMS providers. Here are some of the core benefits of TMS to know about:

• People who use TMS can seek it out as either a standalone option or something that can be used alongside medication and traditional therapy.
• When used for FDA-approved purposes, TMS is generally covered by most insurance companies.
• Studies show high success rates for TMS and OCD, depression, and smoking cessation.
• Appointments are fast and comfortable.
• There’s no recovery or downtime. You can resume the rest of your day immediately!
• TMS provides a medication-free way to treat depression.
• Generally, people don’t experience any side effects following TMS treatments.
• TMS provides long-lasting results. According to some research, many patients experience sustained results for up to a year or longer.

It’s also important to note that TMS is not the same as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). TMS is a painless procedure that doesn’t require patients to be placed under anesthesia. During a TMS session, a patient simply sits comfortably in a chair or recliner. However, some people may experience mild to moderate side effects that can include scamp discomfort, headaches, tingling of the facial muscles, or lightheadedness. If side effects are experienced, a care provider can adjust the level of stimulation in order to reduce symptoms.

Finding TMS and rTMS Treatments Near Me

If you’re ready to try transcranial magnetic stimulation COD, depression, smoking, or autism treatments after seeing so many positive TMS reviews, the next step is finding a clinic offering TMS and MeRT treatments near you. One of the benefits of working with an experienced team is that patients are treated with customized care. While TMS is very different from other mainstream treatments for depression, it can easily be incorporated into a plan that includes traditional therapies that range from medication to talk therapy. When using TMS and alternative versions of this therapy, care providers can tailor frequency and intensity to meet the needs of each patient.

Contact the TMS Institute of Arizona to schedule a consultation.