TMS

What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive therapy that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in specific areas of the brain. These pulses help regulate brain activity involved in pain perception and neurological signaling.

During treatment, a small electromagnetic coil is placed against the scalp. The device delivers controlled magnetic pulses that stimulate targeted brain regions connected to pain processing. Because TMS therapy influences the brain’s neural pathways, it may help patients whose symptoms haven’t responded well to traditional pain management treatments.

What conditions may TMS therapy help treat?

TMS therapy may be recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for several chronic pain conditions. At International Spine Pain & Performance Center, the team may use TMS therapy to help manage:

• Chronic pain syndromes
• Neuropathic pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic migraines or headaches
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• Post-surgical pain

Your provider will evaluate your symptoms and medical history to determine whether TMS therapy may be an appropriate option for your care.

How does TMS therapy work?

TMS therapy works by stimulating areas of the brain involved in the processing of pain signals. By activating these neural pathways, the treatment may help regulate abnormal brain activity associated with chronic pain.

During treatment, a specialized electromagnetic coil is placed against your scalp, and magnetic pulses stimulate targeted brain areas. The session typically lasts about 20–40 minutes and requires no surgery or sedation. Most patients undergo a series of treatments over several weeks.

What are the benefits of TMS therapy?

TMS therapy offers several potential advantages for people experiencing chronic pain, including:

• Non-invasive treatment
• No surgery or anesthesia required
• Minimal downtime after treatment
• Few side effects compared with some medications
• May help patients with treatment-resistant pain
• Improved quality of life and daily functioning

What should I expect during TMS treatment?

Before beginning treatment, you’ll meet with your provider to discuss your symptoms and treatment goals. If TMS therapy is recommended, the team will develop a personalized treatment plan.

During each session, you’ll sit comfortably while the device delivers magnetic pulses through the coil placed on your scalp. Patients often describe the sensation as a light tapping on the scalp.

Most people can return to normal activities immediately after treatment.

Is TMS therapy safe?

TMS therapy is generally well-tolerated and has been widely studied for neurological and pain-related conditions. Most patients experience few side effects. Possible side effects may include:

• Mild scalp discomfort
• Temporary headache
• Mild fatigue after treatment

Call the specialists at International Spine Pain & Performance Center or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy for chronic pain and whether this innovative treatment may be right for you.