Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses a targeted pulsed magnetic field, similar to what is used in an MRI machine to deliver magnetic pulses to the area of the brain with weakened neurotransmitter activity causing depression.
During the TMS procedure, the patient wears a padded helmet which activates the magnetic pulses and is awake and alerts the entire time.
In-office TMS treatments for depression take 6-19 minutes and are administered 5 days a week for approximately 4-6 weeks.
What you can expect from a TMS Therapy session
Before Treatment
- You recline in a comfortable treatment chair and relax
- A padded helmet with TMS coils will be positioned lightly on your head
During Treatment
- The helmet’s coils will deliver focused magnetic stimulation directly to the affected target areas of the brain
- You’ll hear short burst clicking sounds and feel a tapping sensation on your head, your jaw may lock up slightly
- These short burst clicking sounds will last a couple of short seconds with 10-20 second intervals between bursts
- The total duration of the treatment is 6-19 minutes, depending on the type of treatment
After Treatment
- You can resume normal activities immediately
- Because there are no effects on alertness, you can drive yourself to and from treatment sessions
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