What is TMS?

Stimulation, in its simplest definition, is the act of stimulating the body. It's applied using electromagnets similar to those used in MRIs. Coils placed on the head and the electric current applied to these coils create a magnetic field. The magnetic field created in TMS doesn't cause any damage to the scalp or scalp. It's a safe and painless treatment.

During the procedure, electromagnets provide a corrective effect on neural pathways and nerve cells. The goal is to reach structures within the brain from the outside, regulating electrical and neurochemical functioning through magnetic effects. This allows for brain structure modification and intervention without surgery or electrodes. While this neuron-mediated intervention may sound daunting at first, it is painless.

How is TMS Treatment Applied?

Psychiatrists recommend TMS therapy when deemed necessary in addition to medication and psychotherapy. It is typically administered in a clinic, hospital, or doctor's office.

This treatment, which requires no anesthesia and is performed while the patient is awake, is performed by a physician. After the patient is fitted with a cap and the necessary measurements are taken, a marking is placed on the area of the brain that needs stimulation. This is called mapping.

Electromagnetic coils are placed on the marked areas. They are switched on and off for stimulating pulses. They evoke a touching and clicking sensation in the patient. To adjust the amount of magnetic energy required, the magnetic dose must be increased until twitching occurs in the fingers. Because each patient's motor threshold is different, this system must be applied when determining the correct dose. Stimulation can be adjusted based on symptom relief or side effects. Earplugs may be used. Occasionally, temporary scalp discomfort may occur during treatment.

Depending on the type of disease, the treatment varies, sometimes stimulating nerve cells and sometimes silencing overactive neuronal groups. There's no need to stop or reduce medication dosage before the procedure begins. Because this procedure is performed without anesthesia, the patient can return to their daily routine after the session.

There are also different ways to apply it. As experts learn more about the treatment, new techniques and methods will become available.