Overview
What is rTMS?

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a specialized form of TMS that uses repeated magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain. Recognized as an effective treatment for depression for over 15 years, rTMS has gained widespread acceptance, being FDA-approved and covered by many insurance plans. Major hospital systems across the country utilize rTMS, highlighting its credibility and effectiveness in the medical community.

rTMS is commonly known as TMS in many settings. From a clinical perspective, there is no distinction between rTMS and TMS; all variations of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation used to treat conditions like depression and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) are classified under rTMS. Essentially, whenever TMS is employed for therapeutic purposes in these disorders, it is referred to as repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
How it works

During an rTMS session, a specialized electromagnetic coil is positioned against the scalp near the forehead. This coil generates a painless magnetic pulse that penetrates the skull to stimulate nerve cells in the brain regions responsible for mood regulation and depression. Specifically, rTMS targets areas with decreased activity, which are often associated with depressive symptoms.

The Mechanism Behind rTMS:

  1. Magnetic Pulse Delivery: The electromagnetic coil emits magnetic fields that induce electrical currents in targeted brain areas.
  2. Nerve Cell Stimulation: These currents activate nerve cells in regions linked to mood control, enhancing their activity.
  3. Brain Function Modulation: Although the exact biological mechanisms are not fully understood, rTMS is believed to alter brain activity patterns, leading to reduced depressive symptoms and improved emotional well-being.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
What Conditions Does rTMS Treat?

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) has proven effective in addressing a variety of mental and physical health conditions. In the United States, rTMS is FDA-approved for the following treatments:

  • Treatment-Resistant
  • Depression
  • Anxious Depression
  • Obsessive-Compulsive
  • Disorder (OCD)
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Tourette Syndrome
  • Chronic Pain Syndrome
  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
  • Bipolar Disorder (BD)
  • Movement Disorders, such as Parkinson’s Disease, Functional Tremors, Focal Epilepsy, Cortical Myoclonus, and Spasticity

If you’re considering rTMS as a treatment option, consult with a healthcare professional to determine its suitability for your specific condition.

doctor speak with patience
patience
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Is rTMS Safe?

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is generally considered a safe and well-tolerated treatment option for individuals with certain mental health conditions, particularly when conventional treatments have not been effective. While it carries some risks, these are typically rare and manageable under professional supervision. As with any medical treatment, it is crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to assess the potential benefits and risks based on individual health profiles and medical histories.

If you are considering rTMS as a treatment option, discuss your specific circumstances with a healthcare professional to determine if it is appropriate for your needs.

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Success of rTMS

rTMS has demonstrated significant success in treating depression, particularly in individuals who have not responded to traditional treatments like medication and psychotherapy. Clinical studies show that rTMS can lead to substantial improvements in mood and a reduction in depressive symptoms.

Deep TMS, a variant of rTMS, is FDA-approved for OCD treatment. It uses specialized coils to target deeper brain regions implicated in OCD, providing relief for patients resistant to conventional therapies. By modulating brain activity, rTMS can alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Emerging research suggests potential benefits in reducing PTSD-related symptoms.

doctor and patient
Our Services
Our Core Treatments
TMS for Depression

Our new dTMS device will go deeper and cover more area than traditional TMS, providing better results.

TMS for OCD

We now have the only device approved by the FDA and covered by insurance for OCD.

TMS for Addictions

Smoking cessation has recently been approved by the FDA for our Brainsway device. Talk to us about your addictions.

GET IN TOUCH
Get In Touch With Us
Say Hello to us

info@lifequalitytms.com
(718) 400-0867
(718) 4000-TMS

Our Office Location

26 Court St., Ste 808
Brooklyn, NY 11201

    Schedule a Consultation