TMS Therapy

TMS therapy is a non-invasive and FDA-approved treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It has been proven to be an effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Recently, TMS therapy has been gaining attention as a potential treatment option for addiction.

At the Recovery Team, we are committed to offering our patients the latest and most effective treatments available. We believe that TMS therapy has the potential to be a powerful tool in helping individuals recover from addiction and achieve lasting sobriety.

On this page, we will provide you with information about how TMS therapy works, what to expect during treatment, and how it can benefit those struggling with addiction.

What is TMS Used For?

TMS therapy is primarily utilized as a treatment for mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It has demonstrated efficacy in reducing symptoms of these disorders and improving mood in many patients.

Apart from its use in treating mental health disorders, TMS therapy has shown potential as a treatment option for other conditions, including:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): TMS therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing PTSD symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and hyperarousal.
  • Chronic pain: TMS therapy has been employed to manage chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain.
  • Parkinson’s disease: TMS therapy has been researched as a potential treatment for Parkinson’s disease, as it has been shown to enhance motor function and decrease symptoms in some patients.
  • Addiction: Recent studies suggest that TMS therapy may have the potential to treat addiction, particularly substance use disorders.

While TMS therapy is not a cure for these conditions, it can be a valuable treatment option for many individuals. It is a non-invasive and safe procedure that does not require medication, making it an excellent option for those who cannot tolerate or benefit from traditional treatments.

It is crucial to consult a qualified healthcare provider to determine whether TMS therapy is appropriate for you. To find out if TMS is right for you or a loved one and learn more about treatment, contact The Recovery Team at (800) 817-1247.

 

Types of TMS Therapy

​Various types of TMS have been developed by researchers:

  • The traditional TMS procedure utilizes a machine that delivers a singular, uninterrupted signal to the brain, which may be the most appropriate option for certain patients.
  • Repetitive TMS (rTMS) involves delivering numerous electromagnetic signals that turn on and off rapidly.
  • Deep TMS (dTMS) sends signals about four centimeters into the brain, which is substantially deeper than the depth that the first two types of TMS can reach.

Each type of TMS therapy has its own unique benefits and is used to treat different conditions. TMS therapy is a non-invasive and safe treatment option that has been shown to be effective in treating various mental health disorders. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine which type of TMS therapy may be most appropriate for your condition.

How TMS Therapy Works

TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) therapy involves generating a magnetic field that delivers magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain. The magnetic pulses induce small electrical currents in the targeted area, stimulating nerve cells and causing a variety of effects.

This therapy is used to treat depression by stimulating the left prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain associated with mood regulation, which can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

TMS therapy is a non-invasive, painless procedure that does not require sedation or anesthesia. Each session typically lasts for 30-60 minutes, and patients can resume their daily activities immediately after treatment.

What to Expect During a TMS Session

​During a TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) session, the patient sits in a comfortable chair, and a technician places a magnetic coil on the patient’s scalp. The magnetic coil delivers short pulses of magnetic energy to the targeted area of the brain. The patient may hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on the scalp during the procedure.

​The technician will adjust the intensity of the magnetic pulses until the patient feels a tapping sensation on their scalp. The intensity is typically set at a level that is just below the threshold of discomfort for the patient.

Each TMS session typically lasts around 30-60 minutes, depending on the type of TMS being used and the patient’s individual needs. The number of sessions required will vary based on the patient’s condition and response to treatment.

Common Side Effects of TMS Procedure

​Although TMS therapy is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience mild side effects, such as headache or scalp discomfort, during or after the procedure. These side effects are typically temporary and resolve on their own.

The most common side effects of TMS therapy are mild and temporary and include:

  • Headache: Some patients may experience mild to moderate headaches during or after the procedure. These headaches are usually short-lived and can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications.
  • Scalp discomfort: Patients may feel mild to moderate discomfort or pain at the site where the magnetic coil is placed on the scalp. This discomfort is usually temporary and resolves on its own.
  • Tingling or twitching of facial muscles: Some patients may experience involuntary muscle contractions or twitching in the face or scalp muscles during the procedure.
  • Lightheadedness: In rare cases, patients may experience lightheadedness or dizziness during or after the procedure.

Overall, TMS therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for many patients with mental health disorders. Patients should discuss any concerns or questions with their healthcare provider before starting TMS therapy.

Benefits of TMS in Addiction Treatment

TMS therapy is an effective treatment option for individuals with depression who are unresponsive to medication and talk therapy, accounting for around 30% of individuals. TMS therapy works by targeting reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, which can result in various benefits, including:

  • Improve mood and interest in activities
  • Reduce feelings of sadness and emptiness
  • Regulate sleep patterns and cut insomnia
  • Increase energy
  • Lower thoughts of suicide and death
  • Regulate sleep patterns and cut insomnia
  • Decrease frustration and outbursts

TMS therapy is a treatment option that can help many individuals resume their daily activities, such as work and school, free from the effects of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. In addition, for some individuals, TMS therapy can decrease symptoms of unhappiness and misery in conjunction with other treatment methods.

Is TMS Therapy Covered by Insurance?

TMS therapy is considered safe for the majority of individuals as everyone has a unique response to magnetic stimulation. The procedure is non-invasive and only mildly uncomfortable during a short treatment period.

As an FDA-approved therapy, most major insurance companies provide coverage for TMS therapy sessions. At The Recovery Team, we offer TMS therapy and may accept your insurance. Please speak with our counselors to confirm your benefits.