TMS

What is TMS?

TMS, or transcranial magnetic stimulation, uses an electromagnetic coil positioned near the scalp to deliver targeted magnetic pulses. These pulses stimulate nerve cells in specific regions of the brain involved in mood, pain processing, and other neurological functions.

Unlike surgical procedures, TMS does not require an incision or general anesthesia. The treatment is typically performed while you are awake and able to communicate with the clinical team. Depending on the condition being treated and the specific treatment protocol, TMS may be provided as a series of outpatient sessions.

How does TMS work?

During TMS treatment, a specialized device delivers magnetic pulses through the scalp. The pulses influence activity in targeted brain regions and neural networks. TMS protocols are selected according to the condition being addressed and your clinical needs.

For TMS for pain, treatment may focus on brain networks involved in the perception and modulation of pain. Because chronic pain can involve complex interactions among the nervous system, brain, and musculoskeletal system, TMS may be considered as part of a broader, individualized pain management plan when clinically appropriate.

What symptoms and conditions can TMS help treat?

TMS has established clinical uses for certain psychiatric conditions, particularly major depressive disorder, and specific protocols may be used for other conditions depending on regulatory status and clinical judgment. In pain medicine, neuromodulation approaches such as TMS may be considered for selected patients experiencing persistent or chronic pain.

A comprehensive evaluation helps determine whether you're an appropriate candidate for TMS rather than assuming that every type of pain or symptom will respond to treatment.

What are the benefits of TMS?

Potential benefits of TMS therapy include its non-invasive nature and the ability to deliver targeted stimulation without surgery. Patients generally remain awake during treatment, and there is typically no need for a lengthy recovery period.

For appropriately selected patients, TMS may serve as one component of a multidisciplinary treatment plan. The potential benefits, limitations, risks, and alternatives are reviewed before treatment begins.

Who is a candidate for TMS?

The team at International Spine Pain & Performance Center and Mountain Spine & Pain can identify candidates for TMS through an individualized medical evaluation. Factors your provider may consider include your diagnosis, symptoms, previous treatments, overall health, medications, and treatment objectives.

For TMS for pain, the team at International Spine Pain & Performance Center and Mountain Spine & Pain considers the nature and duration of your pain, previous therapies, functional limitations, and whether a neuromodulation-based approach is medically appropriate. TMS is not suitable for every patient, and certain medical devices, implanted materials, or other health considerations may affect eligibility.

What can patients expect during TMS sessions?

A typical TMS session takes place in an outpatient setting. During your session, you sit comfortably while the treatment coil is positioned near a predetermined area of the head. The device then delivers magnetic pulses according to the prescribed protocol.

You may hear clicking sounds and feel tapping or sensations on the scalp during stimulation. Treatment duration and the number of sessions you'll require vary according to the protocol and clinical indication. The team at International Spine Pain & Performance Center and Mountain Spine & Pain monitors you throughout treatment and provides guidance regarding what to expect before and after each session.

Patients seeking TMS therapy can receive an individualized assessment to determine whether TMS treatment may be an appropriate part of a comprehensive pain management or sports medicine plan. Future educational resources can provide additional information about TMS protocols, TMS for pain, candidacy, and what to expect during treatment.

To learn more about TMS, call International Spine Pain & Performance Center and Mountain Spine & Pain or request an appointment online today.