What Is TMS?

TMS is a noninvasive, non-drug treatment for depression that affects only the part of the brain involved with mood and emotion: the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC).

TMS activates neurons in the brain by generating an electric field with a wand-like coil, which passes through the scalp and skull.

Who Is a Good Candidate for TMS?

TMS may be a good option for adults with depression who have tried at least two different antidepressant medications without significant improvement.

If you meet these criteria, a healthcare provider will also evaluate your medical history to determine if TMS is right for you.

Preparing for Treatment

Before starting TMS, an MRI of your head is taken and uploaded to the TMS system to help guide your treatment.

First Session

TMS is personalized for you. In your first session, the operator of the TMS machine will find the best stimulating dose for treatment and locate your left DLPFC.

To find the best dose, the operator will place small sensors on your hands to detect muscle movement. You’ll also wear a head tracker so a tracking system can follow your head and the TMS device.

The operator will then gently rest the coil against your head and activate it. You’ll hear a click, and you may feel a slight tingling on your scalp. Depending on the strength of the stimulation, you may notice a small twitch in your hand muscles where the sensors are placed.

The operator will move the coil and stimulate your brain several times to determine the best stimulation power to comfortably and reliably conduct your treatment.

The operator will then find the exact location of your left DLPFC. From then on, every session will target that area.. After these measurements are made in the first session, treatment can begin.

What to Expect During Treatment

During each session, you’ll sit in a reclining chair with a comfortable headrest. This allows you to relax and remain comfortable during the treatment.

You’ll wear the head tracker again, and the operator will stimulate the same spot with intensity personalized for you.

A typical treatment course lasts six weeks, with five sessions per week, followed by a three-week taper period. Each session can last anywhere from three minutes to 37 minutes, depending on your personalized treatment plan.

After Treatment

At the end of each session, the operator will remove the coil, head tracker, earplugs, and any other electrodes. You can return to your daily routine.

Common side effects following treatment may include mild headaches or mild scalp pain and discomfort.