Modern transcranial magnetic therapy (TMS) was first FDA-approved in 2008 to treat major depression that had failed to respond to conventional treatments. However, transcranial magnetic stimulation has been used experimentally for over a century.

This article describes transcranial magnetic therapy, its potential benefits and risks, what it is used to treat, and how transcranial magnetic stimulation works.

What is Transcranial Magnetic Therapy?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS for short, is a type of brain stimulation therapy that uses magnets to activate the nerve cells in your brain. This process can improve symptoms of depression as well as other mental illnesses.

TMS is typically administered using a magnetic coil placed against the scalp near the forehead. The magnetic field passes through the skull and into the brain, where it stimulates nerve cells.

Transcranial magnetic therapy is noninvasive and does not require anesthesia or sedation. It is usually given on an outpatient basis, which means you can go home after each treatment session.

What Does Transcranial Magnetic Therapy Treat?

Transcranial magnetic therapy is most commonly used to treat depression that has not responded to other treatments, such as medication or talk therapy. However, transcranial magnetic stimulation may also be effective for treating:

  • Anxiety disorders
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Schizophrenia

All these conditions affect how you think, feel, and behave. They can cause severe symptoms that can interfere with your ability to function at work or school and maintain healthy personal relationships.

How Does Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Work?

The exact mechanism of transcranial magnetic therapy is not fully understood. However, it is thought to work by altering brain activity in areas involved in mood regulation and controlling emotions.

Transcranial magnetic therapy may also help to improve the way your brain responds to antidepressant medication. In some cases, transcranial magnetic stimulation can be used as a standalone treatment for depression. However, it is more commonly used in combination with other treatments, such as medication or talk therapy.

If you are considering transcranial magnetic therapy for depression or another mental health condition, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor. Transcranial magnetic therapy is generally safe, but there are some potential side effects, such as headaches, dizziness, and scalp discomfort.

Overall, transcranial magnetic therapy is a promising treatment for depression and other mental disorders. However, more research is still being done to determine its long-term effectiveness. If you are considering transcranial magnetic therapy, be sure to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a doctor at a local psychiatric service — such as Psyche PC — so you can make an informed decision.

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