Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (also known as TMS) is a non-invasive medical treatment involving magnetic fields that stimulate brain nerve cells. According to the medical specialists of United Urgent Care in Reno, NV, TMS therapy seeks to influence brain activity to improve symptoms related to mental health conditions like depression. However, TMS has also shown promising results in managing anxiety, chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and certain neurological disorders.

TMS therapy has received the green light from the United States Food and Drug Administration for treating depression, making it a viable option for those who haven't found success with traditional treatments.

What Does a TMS Therapy Session Look Like?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) generates brief magnetic pulses using a magnetic coil near the scalp. These pulses penetrate the skull to stimulate specific areas of the brain, mainly the prefrontal cortex, which regulates mood. TMS is typically done while a client is awake and alert without a need for sedation.

These magnetic pulses are believed to modify the brain's electrical activity, helping to "reset" specific neural circuits that may be underactive, etc., which is often seen for those with depression. Different protocols of TMS are used based on the condition being treated. More specifically -

• A TMS session typically lasts about 30 - 40 minutes.
• Treatments happen several times weekly for 4-6 weeks but are contingent on the condition and a patient's response.

Most patients need no recovery time to return to their everyday activities soon after treatment.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy Benefits

TMS does not require medication or surgery, making it a favorable choice for those who a) haven't experienced desired outcomes using antidepressants or b) those who want to avoid medications' adverse side effects.

Common side effects, which typically disappear shortly after the therapy, are generally mild and may include headaches or discomfort at the treatment site. 

Mental Health Applications

Transcranial magnetic stimulation is most often used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), especially for those who have not had desired outcomes from antidepressants or therapy.  Yet -

• There is growing evidence that suggests it is effective in treating anxiety disorders.
• Some studies suggest it may effectively reduce PTSD symptoms by targeting brain areas responsible for emotional regulation and memory processing.
• TMS is being explored to treat other conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder, chronic pain, and addiction.

Contact a Leading Reno, NV Urgent Care for TMS Treatment Options

TMS can be part of an essential comprehensive treatment plan for optimal outcomes. For more information, contact the medical specialists of United Urgent Care at 775-384-1380 or online.