TMS
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved non-invasive treatment option that has successfully transformed the lives of patients suffering from Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Recently BrainsWay Deep Transcranial Magnetic stimulation was FDA cleared as a treatment option for tobacco/nicotine use disorder.
TMS Overview:
In multiple clinical trials, TMS demonstrated clinical efficacy in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in patients who have previously failed to respond or have partial responses to medications or other traditional treatment options. TMS may also be a good option for individuals who do not want to take certain medications or have a history of adverse reactions to them. However, if you are taking an antidepressant with partial response you can add TMS treatment with the goal of achieving remission.
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TMS treatments are generally well-tolerated, allowing patients to continue their normal daily activities after receiving their treatments.
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TMS has also been shown to offer symptomatic relief in cases of Major Depressive Disorder with Anxiety using an alternative off-label protocol.
How does TMS Work?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a cutting-edge treatment that involves using electromagnetic pulses, much like an MRI, to generate a targeted magnetic field in the brain, activating neural circuits in the region of the brain associated with mood control. The goal of TMS therapy is to restore effective communication among different brain circuits allowing you to feel more in control of regulating your feelings, thoughts and actions, which results in a reduction of depressive symptoms.
What can a patient expect after a TMS session?
After a TMS treatment session, there is no downtime, and you will be able to immediately return to your normal routine without any restrictions. Since anesthesia is not needed for TMS, you will also be able to drive to and from your treatments. The majority of patients do not experience side effects, but some patients may feel tired or experience headaches.
The results from TMS treatment can vary, but most people notice an improvement of symptoms between the third and fourth week of treatment. It has been clinically established that most of the patients who have improvement with TMS are able to maintain their results for at least a year. There are currently no controlled studies of benefits after a year. Some patients may consider subsequent treatments.
How do I know if I am a good candidate for TMS?
Calm Clinic TMS providers conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine if TMS therapy is right for you. There are some situations in which TMS therapy is not appropriate, including if you have:
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Metal in or around your head (braces and dental fillings are safe)
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Pacemakers
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Implanted cardioverter defibrillators
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Vagus nerve stimulators
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Epilepsy
If TMS is not right for you, we also offer Esketamine / Spravato treatments as an alternative therapy for treatment resistant depression.
What can a patient expect during treatment?
During the procedure, a cap is fitted over the patient’s head before sending magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain.
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During the first session, the patient will be seated in a chair and will be given earplugs to protect their hearing. Our psychiatrists will personally oversee our treatment team while the brain mapping and motor threshold determination are performed. As a part of this process, we find the best treatment location for each patient. During the first session, treatment dosage, or intensity, will also be determined. Once the treatment location and dosage are verified, patients are ready to begin their treatments. Patients will experience a tapping sensation on their scalp during the treatment.
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During subsequent sessions, patients will relax comfortably and have the option to enjoy watching their favorite TV Shows or Movies. Unilateral treatments can be completed in as little as 20 minutes.
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Each patient in treatment will be closely monitored and a system operator will always be available for any questions during treatment. After your treatment, you may immediately return to your normal routine.
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Each patient will receive a treatment plan unique to their own needs. Patients can expect to come in for treatment 5 days a week for 4 to 6 weeks, followed by a tapering schedule until the total number of treatments are completed.
Why Choose Calm Clinic for TMS Therapy?
We know that the support we provide to patients and the TMS therapy we use make a difference. Our objective is to improve the mental health of our patients by providing a way for them to take control of their depression. People respond to our personal and empathetic approach from the moment they contact us with their questions and interest. We don’t just provide hope, we provide answers. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.