What is TMS?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields (similar to an MRI) to stimulate the nerve cells in the brain affected by your depression. Treatment requires repetitive magnetic pulses to the brain to get the desired effects.
Stedman Clinical Trials uses the NeuroStar® TMS therapy system to perform this painless procedure. Treatment is safe and effective and may provide long-term remission of your depression.
Am I a good candidate for TMS?
Stedman Clinical Trials determines if you’re a good candidate for TMS therapy during a consultation. TMS therapy is generally only recommended when traditional treatment for depression - medication and therapy - fails to improve your symptoms.
However, the clinical research center may include TMS therapy in a clinical trial to test the effectiveness of the treatment on other diagnoses. Eligibility for a clinical trial with TMS therapy may depend on your sex, age, diagnosis, and family history.
What can I expect during TMS therapy?
Your TMS therapy occurs at the office of Stedman Clinical Trials. During your treatment, you sit in a comfortable reclinable chair. Then, your specialist places the curved magnetic coil on your head and initiates the magnetic pulses.
You may hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation during your TMS therapy. However, you shouldn’t feel any pain or discomfort.
To get the most benefits from TMS therapy, Stedman Clinical Trials recommends treatments five days a week for 4-6 weeks. With the NeuroStar TMS therapy system, each treatment takes 20 to 40 minutes.
There’s no downtime after TMS therapy, and you can resume your usual activities once your session has ended.
What are the benefits of TMS therapy?
TMS therapy offers many benefits to those suffering from depression. Some of the benefits include:
- Reduction in depression symptoms
- No side effects
- Continued use of your usual medications
- No need for anesthesia or sedation
- Performed under the supervision of a board-certified psychiatrist
Some people even experience complete remission of their depression after TMS therapy.
For innovative care for your depression, call Stedman Clinical Trials, or book an appointment online to learn more about TMS therapy.
