If you suffer from depression or other mental health conditions, you may have heard of TMS therapy. But what is TMS therapy? How many TMS treatments are needed to see lasting results? In this article, we will answer these questions and compare TMS therapy to other major therapies. We will also detail a typical TMS session so you know what to expect.
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TMS therapy is mainly used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). It is used when other treatments, such as antidepressants or psychotherapy, have failed or caused intolerable side effects. However, it may also be helpful for other conditions like anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, chronic pain, migraines, tinnitus, and stroke recovery.2
How many TMS treatments are needed to start feeling better? Most people start seeing results after two to four weeks of treatment. Some people may need more sessions or a higher intensity of stimulation to achieve optimal results. Your doctor will track your progress and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
After completing the initial course of treatment, you may need periodic maintenance sessions to prevent relapse or recurrence of your symptoms. The frequency and duration of maintenance sessions vary depending on your individual needs. Some people may need weekly or monthly sessions while others may only need them every few months or years.
How many TMS treatments are needed compared to other therapies? TMS therapy has some advantages over other major therapies such as medication or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Unlike medication, TMS does not cause systemic side effects like weight gain, sexual dysfunction, nausea, or drowsiness. It also does not interact with other drugs or substances.
Additionally, TMS can cause some mild to moderate side effects. These include scalp discomfort, headache, tingling, muscle twitching, lightheadedness, or hearing problems during or after the session. These are usually temporary and subside within hours or days. It is important to consult with your doctor before starting TMS therapy and weigh the benefits and risks of each treatment option.
How many TMS treatments are needed until you’re comfortable? Understanding what a session will look like will help you enter treatment comfortable with the process. The steps of a typical TMS therapy session are detailed below.3
Your doctor will determine the best location and intensity of stimulation for you by performing a test called motor threshold (MT). This involves finding the lowest level of stimulation that causes a slight movement in your hand or fingers. This helps ensure that you receive the most effective and safe dose of stimulation.
How many TMS treatments are needed to be effective? TMS therapy is effective for many people who suffer from depression and other mental health conditions. According to a meta-analysis of 81 studies involving more than 4,000 patients with MDD, TMS therapy significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to placebo treatment. TMS therapy had a higher remission rate (complete recovery) than sham treatment (17.3% vs 9.8%).4
Another meta-analysis found that TMS therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, chronic pain, and tinnitus compared to sham treatment.
At Advaita Integrated Medicine (AIM), we specialize in treating a variety of mental health conditions. We aim to treat the whole person, so we create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our team of compassionate professionals is here to make sure you feel safe and supported in your recovery journey. We offer a variety of treatment options, including TMS, talk therapy, group and individual sessions, and more holistic approaches. These include yoga, meditation, and mindfulness training.
How many TMS treatments are needed for you? We can help you figure this out and get you the help you need. Reach out to Advaita Integrated Medicine today for more information about TMS therapy and our other available treatment options. We will be with you every step of the way.
Gregory Ng is the CEO of Brooks Bell. In his nearly 25 years in marketing, Greg has created innovative solutions leading to digital and cognitive transformations for the biggest high-tech, retail and financial brands in the world. Greg adds knowledge in marketing strategy, content production, and brand awareness to the AHV advisory board.
Hunt Broyhill holds several positions within the Broyhill family offices and serves as President, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of BMC Fund and Chief Executive Officer of Broyhill Asset Management. Hunt brings valuable experience in capital allocation, real estate, and investor relations to the AHV advisory board.
Alan Hughes was formerly the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. In addition to BCBS, Alan held officer positions in both operations and technology at GE Commercial Finance, Deutsche Bank, and American Express. Alan brings a unique combination of efficient process design and technological problem solving to the AHV advisory board.
Lynn is the CEO of Broadstep. Previously, Lynn held various roles in both healthcare and finance where she oversaw multi-site, multi-state organizations within primary care, acute and chronic services, hospitals, and pharmacies. Lynn brings valuable experience in healthcare leadership, recruiting, and growth strategy to the AHV advisory board.
John Roos is the retired Senior Vice President and Chief Growth Officer for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. Under Roos’s tenure, the company’s revenue grew from $1.5 billion to $9.5 billion, while adding 1 million members. John brings valuable experience in growth strategy, enterprise sales, and provider contracting to the AHV advisory board.
Dr. Hendree Jones is the Executive Director of UNC-Horizons and an internationally recognized expert in behavioral and pharmacologic treatments for pregnant women and their children. Dr. Jones has received continuous funding from the National Institutes of Health since 1994 and has over 200 peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Jones is an advisor to the UN, WHO, SAMHSA, ASAM, and ACOG through which she consults throughout the United States and internationally. Dr. Jones brings valuable experience in grant writing, research, and healthcare administration to the AHV advisory board.
Brad is the CEO Emeritus for BCBSNC and Chair of the BCBSNC Foundation. He served as Gov. Jim Hunt’s general counsel and is a past chair of the UNC Board of Governors. Brad serves on numerous public and private boards and is a lifelong North Carolinian with degrees from Appalachian State, Wake Forest, and Duke. He brings valuable experience in healthcare, law, higher education, and politics.
Jake Summers is a passionate entrepreneur who is dedicated to bringing the energy of change to existing healthcare business models and making higher quality healthcare more accessible. Jake co-founded a mango farming/export company in Cambodia and serves as an advisor for a number of small businesses. Jake is the co-founder of Advaita Integrated Medicine and is the Development Director and a Partner of Green Hill.
Tripp Johnson is a serial healthcare entrepreneur who’s dedicated his post-military professional life to serving young adults. He is the co-founder of Advaita Integrated Medicine, Advaita Health Ventures, and Green Hill Recovery. Tripp is passionate about making quality healthcare more affordable and accessible through innovative business models and technology-focused solutions.