TMS Therapy
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TMS Therapy Specialist Q&A
What is TMS?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a revolutionary treatment effective for a variety of mental health conditions. TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain’s nerve cells to relieve symptoms of mental health conditions like Depression, Anxiety, or alcohol abuse.
TMS is a FDA approved, non-invasive procedure usually used when a patient hasn’t responded to other depression treatments such as anti-depressants. Many patients prefer TMS to traditional medications due to its stronger efficacy and lack of need to take daily medications.
In addition to its mood-boosting effects, TMS has also been shown to improve cognitive function, sleep quality, and energy levels. TMS is a safe and well-tolerated treatment with few side effects, making it an ideal option for patients who are seeking an alternative to medication or who have not responded well to traditional treatments.
TMS therapy is typically performed daily for four to six weeks, and patients can experience improvements in symptoms within the first few weeks of treatment. TMS can be highly effective, with many patients finding that their depression symptoms disappear entirely.
More standard care such as psychotherapy and medication are sometimes recommended for ongoing treatment following TMS. Some patients elect to have maintenance TMS sessions in the aftermath of their treatment even if they are displaying no symptoms of depression as a preventative measure.
Re-introduction to TMS is also an option if depressive symptoms return after initially dissipating.
How does TMS work?
Once we determine that TMS is the right treatment, the course begins with a noninvasive mapping of the brain to determine where to place the coil. In depressed patients, the area of the brain we activate is known as the dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex, or DLPC. This area is often under activated in depression.
A magnetic coil is placed on the scalp above the area that needs activation. Magnetic pulses are then transmitted that part of the brain in order to strengthen their connections. Treatment lasts between 15 minutes to an hour and patients are able to watch TV or listen to music during their sessions.
A team member will be by their side throughout the procedure to ensure comfort. Most patients only feel a mild tapping on their scalp. After treatment has completed, the effects of TMS can last for a year or more.
What are the side effects of TMS?
TMS has little to no side effects for most patients. Some patients who undergo TMS therapy report headache, fatigue, scalp soreness, or dizziness. However, these side effects tend to fade within the first week of treatment.
Is TMS covered by insurance?
Yes, TMS is covered by most insurance plans for patients who have failed previous treatments.
What is the success rate of TMS?
TMS has been demonstrated to be a highly effective for many individuals who have failed to receive benefits from previous treatments. For depressed patients, up to 83% of patients see a response to TMS, and up to 62% have a full resolution of their symptoms.
In addition, TMS has been shown to be effective for both mild and severe forms of depression.
What disorders can TMS help treat?
TMS can help treat depression, addiction, chronic pain, and OCD with excellent effectiveness. TMS is typically used as an option for patients who haven’t responded to more traditional treatment options such as therapy and medication.
When patients visit Delos for treatment a trained medical professional will discuss the patient’s previous treatments, their concerns, and their goals, to decide if TMS is the right treatment for them. You are not alone! Call our team of professionals today at Delos Psychiatry today or visit us online. Delos, located in Boulder, CO, offers the most modern solutions for mental health services and has TMS available on-site as part of treatment plans for patients for whom it is a good fit. TMS is also covered by most insurance providers making it an affordable option. Reach out to us today to learn more about TMS and its benefits. For more information, call us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2501 Walnut St. Suite 204 Boulder, CO 80302. We serve patients from Boulder CO, Denver CO, Silverthorne CO, Longmont CO, Superior CO, Lafayette CO, Broomfield CO, Erie CO, and Niwot CO.
