Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

What is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)?

TMS is a noninvasive treatment that uses a magnetic field to stimulate nerve activity in your brain. The therapy is highly customized, with precise measurements to ensure the electromagnetic coils of the TMS machine line up against the exact part of your brain to target your neuropathic pain receptors.

The CloudTMS technology used at US Neuropathy Centers has FDA clearance for treating major depressive disorder, including treatment resistant depression.

As well as being an effective method of treating depression without medication, CloudTMS is also beneficial for patients who have anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or addiction problems.

How does TMS therapy work?

TMS uses a targeted magnetic field to stimulate specific parts of your brain. You perceive pain because of signals that travel along your nerves and into your brain.

TMS disrupts the cycle of false pain signals with the magnetic field, which allows you to lead a pain-free, active life.

CloudTMS technology is a cloud-based repetitive TMS machine that allows your provider at US Neuropathy Centers to access data securely from the cloud for optimal convenience.

What happens during a TMS treatment?

Your first TMS appointment at US Neuropathy Centers may take two hours or longer as your doctor needs to carefully position the TMS coils against the right part of your head to target the neuropathic pain receptors.

They measure the angles on your head and distances between different features to locate the appropriate cortex for your pain.

Fortunately, your doctor can program your precise measurements into the CloudTMS machine, and on subsequent appointments, the equipment can calibrate itself to your details.

When the coils are in place, your doctor turns on the machine to create the magnetic field. You may feel a tapping sensation during treatment, and the equipment emits noise, but there is no pain or need for anesthesia.

In fact, you can drive yourself home and return to your regular activities as soon as your appointment is complete.

You will need a series of treatments. Most patients have TMS treatments five days a week for several weeks to resolve their symptoms. After your initial appointment, you spend under an hour in the office having TMS therapy that can last between 20-40 minutes.

Am I a good candidate for TMS treatments?

The team at US Neuropathy Centers provides comprehensive exams and consultations before recommending TMS therapy. You must be 18 or older and can’t have any metal in your head or neck, although cavity fillings are acceptable.

Call US Neuropathy Centers or make an appointment online today to find out if TMS therapy is right for you.