Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation ( TMS Therapy )

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve dysphoric symptoms. TMS therapy is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression but has also been shown to benefit those with substance use disorders (SUDs), which share much of the same pathophysiology and often occur together. 

TMS therapy, as a treatment for pain, cigarette smoking, opioid addiction, tinnitus, and memory, is also tried.

During TMS therapy, your provider places a special coil against your scalp. When initiated, the coil delivers pulses of magnetic energy, similar to what occurs during an MRI, to specific areas of your brain noted to have low activity. The magnetic pulses stimulate the nerve cells and reactivate these areas of the brain to alleviate symptoms. 

With addiction, the specialists at Nashville Brain Institute find that TMS therapy influences neural activity and neuroplasticity by improving the neural connectivity that’s been degraded by your SUD. 

The experienced mental health specialists at Nashville Brain Institute determine if you’re a good candidate for TMS therapy during a consultation. As previously noted, the noninvasive procedure is FDA-approved for those suffering from depression that hasn’t improved with traditional therapies. You may also want to schedule a consultation to discuss how TMS may help you if you’re suffering from an addiction, chronic pain, tinnitus, anxiety, or another mental health condition. 

The team may also use the innovative procedure to help those seeking ways to improve mental function, cognition, and memory.

The team performs your TMS therapy at the office. The treatment is noninvasive and doesn’t require any anesthesia. During your therapy, you may feel a tapping sensation, but no pain. 

The length of your treatment depends on the reason you’re undergoing the procedure. Traditionally, treatments take about 45 minutes. However, the team at Nashville Brain Institute has found that you may be able to get the benefits from TMS therapy with 10- to 15-minute sessions.  

You will need a series of treatments to get the most benefits out of TMS. Your specialist develops your treatment plan before you get started so you know what to expect. In most cases, TMS therapy is provided five days a week for four to six weeks.

To schedule a consultation with the experts at Nashville Brain Institute to see how TMS may help you, contact the office by phone or online today.